One common theme could be family. Jewish women might have stitched pictures of their loved ones as a way to keep their memories alive during the war. Another theme could be their religious beliefs. Symbols like the Star of David or scenes from religious ceremonies could be present in the needlework.
Themes in their needlework picture stories could also include the struggle for survival. Images of crowded living conditions in ghettos or the long lines for meager rations might be depicted. Additionally, there could be themes of hope. For instance, pictures of a sunrise or a dove, which are symbols of new beginnings and peace, might be part of the needlework. They were using these themes to both document their experiences and find some sense of comfort in a very difficult situation.