In Panama, there is a lot of variety of crafts. The typical Panamanian handicraft is born from the traditions and the different cultures that, for years, have been and will continue being part of the Panamanian.
Woodworking in Panama
Wood can be used for many uses, as well as for the elaboration of beautiful and traditional crafts.
In the indigenous area of Darién, they are experts in wood carving. They make carvings of birds, animals, and much more; of different sizes. A sculpture that takes time and a lot of dedication; Because everything is made by hand.
These carvings are made with cocobolo wood, a tree that grows in the Darién reserve; One of the provinces of Panama.
The cocobolo is a precious and luxurious wood native to Central America. It is super resistant and has a reddish color that makes it unique and different from other woods. Besides, you do not need varnish, thanks to its natural oils.
Molas of the indigenous
Molas are known almost everywhere in the world, especially those molas made by the Kuna – Yala region.
Molas, which are more than 170 years old, were born from the Guna women’s culture of painting their bodies. It is interesting to mention that the word “Mola” means “clothes or blouse” in the indigenous language of the Guna ethnic group, that is, the Kuna language.
Those designs that were made in their bodies then passed to the fabric. First, they were painted on the material, and then the reverse applies technique was applied, giving the result that we know today. Without a doubt, molas are beautiful Panamanian textile art.
The pinto hat
Panama’s famous Pintao Hat is a traditional piece of clothing, a part of the typical Panamanian costume. It even has its own festival, which is celebrated every year, in October.
As for its elaboration, the hat is made with natural reed fibers. They also use acorn or pita. For color, they use chisná, a plant; And everything is made by hand.
Any Panamanian is proud to wear a Pinoa hat; because it is a way of making its roots known. The Pintao Hat is a real jewel of crafts and a symbol of the country’s culture. Also, it is an ancient accessory.
Other typical Panamanian crafts
In Panama, there are many typical crafts, but the best known or that stand out apart from those mentioned above, are the following:
- Chácaras: it is also called cebadera and is a woven vegetable fiber bag.
- Chaquiras: They are beads of bright colors and can be made of fiberglass or plastic.
- Naguas: it is a dress, which is typical of the Ngäbe-Buglé culture.
- Coconut ornaments, and more.