The Kuna Indians are found in Panama in the area of Kuna Yala and this is where you can find the most exclusive piece of handiwork in Panama, which are the “molas”.  Mola refers to the Kuna Indian word for heavy embroidered panels and represent the tradition and culture of the Kuna Indians.  Mola panels vary in design, form and shape.  The excellence of a mola panel would be based on details such as:  geometric design, even stitching details, number of layers, additional minute details included, etc. 

The designed mola panels are placed on the front and back of a Kuna woman’s blouse. This embroidered blouse was originally designed by a woman belonging to the Kuna tribe of Central America in Panama.  Today, one can find the traditional mola design panels in Panama and put them to use for practically anything, such as:

• Different pieces of clothing, including pants and shirts
• Throw pillows for sofas, rugs, beds, etc.
• Pot holders
• Wall decors
• Place mats
• Quilts

Purchasing a mola for tourists is a must and is definitely worth it to buy as a gift for friends and family.  For locals and residents, having a mola symbolizes representing an important piece of Panama´s tradition and heritage.