Molas are discussed according to how they are made and what they show.

1. They have a number of layers of cloth.

2. There is an outline of the main pattern using an additional color.

3. A pair of Molas, the front and back of a blouse uses “interlocking” or reverse colors.

4. Additional layers of color are sewn into the openings of the main pattern.

5. Appliqués of images are stitched to the top layer of cloth often with inserts of colors shapes or narrow strips of color inset into the fabric.

6. Filler motifs of simple repeated patterns are used.

7. Notched or serrated borders are included.

8. Embroidery details done with thread are added to surfaces.

  

Each Mola can be judged by the following criteria:

1. It looks good, is beautiful and attracts attention.

2. It is well sewn using small and evenly spaced stitches.

3. The design is intricate and shows time-consuming skill.

4. The colors are well coordinated and easy to distinguish.

5. The cuts are sharp and clean.

6. The filler motifs are well spaced.

  

All of the Molas that I’m making available meet these criteria.

Dennis Grabowski, Mr. Mola

 

For further information see Michel Perrin, Magnificent Molas, The Art of the Kuna Indians (1999) and Mari Lyn Salvador, The Art of Being Kuna, Layers of Meaning Among the Kuna of Panama (1997)