Molas from Panama

Molas from Panama are made of brightly colored fabric.

The word “Mola” means clothing.

They are made by the Kuna Indians who live in the country of

Panama.

They feature bright colors and pictures of animals and

plants.

The Molas of Panama, made with cloth

and thread, take days, weeks, or even months to make

depending on the details of the design.

Molas are filled with color, line and pattern.

Here are molas for sale in a market

in Panama.

Molas made a long time ago used geometric

patterns. These designs came from the Maya

people.

Whole families work on making and selling molas.

Molas originated as body painting but then became part of clothing.

Today, the Kuna Indians live in both cities and rural villages.

Panama is part of Central America.