Buy molas from Guna makers, not look-alike souvenirs
- Distrito de Panamá, Panama
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Molas are Guna panels made by reverse appliqué: several layers of cloth are cut and the edges turned under and sewn, so colors show through, and even a simple one takes many hours. Imitations that copy Guna designs on bags and coasters are common despite a 1984 protection law. Buy from Guna women or their cooperatives, and check for stitched layers rather than flat patterns. Small molitas made for tourists have fewer layers and simpler designs, so ask who made the piece.
Dónde
Buy molas from Guna makers, not look-alike souvenirsCraft centers and artisan shops such as those around Balboa and Mi Pueblito, Panama City
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