Molas Market and the Kuna Indian Village

The tradition of the Mola is believed to have originated with the Kuna Indians and is descendent from a form of body painting with natural dyes in geometric patterns. As cloth became available to this culture around 170 years ago, the body painting transformed into cloth panels decorated in these same patterns, which are then formed into clothing. Molas are handmade individual cloth panels using a reverse applique technique. From two to seven layers of different colored cloth are sewn together, with the pattern revealed by cutting parts of each layer away. These panels are then sewn together to make shirts and skirts. When a woman tires of the shirt or skirt, the panels are disassembled and sold as individual panels. The panels might show some wear or stitching marks from garment construction, however this actually adds value to the Mola as the panel is considered to have been made for authentic use.

Kuna Indian Beach

Molas can only be found for purchase in the San Blas Islands, which are a very interesting and off the beaten track yacht charter location. Here warm tropical waters and breezes mix with a unique culture, which is most easily experienced by cruising through these islands on a crewed yacht charter.

San Blas Banana Plantation and the San Blas Coconut Harvesting