Molas are a type of hand-made textile that forms part of the traditional womens clothing of the indigenous Guna people from Panama and Colombia, South America). They are simple yoke-type blouses richly decorated by intricate needlework, and the term "mola" can refer to the blouse that is daily wear for Guna women or to its front or back panels. Molas are handmade using a reverse appliqué technique, where several layers (usually two to seven) of different-colored cloth (usually cotton) are sewn together, and the design is then formed by cutting away parts of each layer. Geometric molas are the most traditional, having developed from ancient body painting designs). Many hours of careful sewing are required to create a fine mola, and the ability to make an outstanding mola is a source of status among Guna women). The quality of a mola is determined by factors such as the number of layers, fineness of the stitching, evenness and width of cutouts, and addition of details such as zigzag borders, lattice-work, or embroidery. Molas are often sold in pairs, with the two molas usually being two variations on a theme. Mola panels have many uses, such as being framed as art or made into pillows, place mats, or wall hangings. Molas are very sturdy and well-sewn, and authentic molas have already been washed many times and can be safely hand washed in warm water. The making of a mola is an art with a strong symbolic content, and each step of opening a layer of fabric to reveal the color below has a meaning.