Mola - Green Leather Crossbody or Shoulder Bag with Handmade Mola Fabric Panel

Mola - Green Leather Crossbody or Shoulder Bag with Handmade Mola Fabric Panel Handmade Mola textile on the front Adjustable strap. Two zipper compartments to carry phone, ID, keys, etc. The Mola, or Molas, is a handmade textile that forms part of the traditional women's clothing of the Guna (previously spelled Kuna or Cuna) indigenous people from Panama and Colombia in the Caribbean Coast. Each panel is constructed of multiple layers of cloth of contrasting colours. The technique used is referred to as reverse appliqué, which involves layering two or more fabrics of different colours and sewing them together, then using a pair of scissors to carefully snip away parts of each layer to reveal the design. Next, they use fabric remnants to fill in each layer, creating a striking geometric-like form. The more layers used, the more complex the final piece, which is adorned with intricate embroidery sewn by hand. Often, the base fabric of a piece is black to help emphasiz the other colors and make them pop on the finished garment. It takes many hours of sewing to create even the simplest mola. The mola designs and patterns are unique for every artisan woman as they incorporate elements from their culture and nature. A mola is known for its bright colours and intricate designs depicting flowers, birds, reptiles, animals and other emblems indicative of Mother Nature. 4.5” x 6.5” Excellent condition Please see all photos as part of the description. Ships from a smoke-free home.