 Traditionally, Bara women would weave local cotton to make clothing for themselves and their family members.Cotton continues to be hand picked, ginned and woven using a high-whorl drop spindle.Raw cotton yarn is typically dipped in a softening solution before weaving; prior to softening, the yarn is called "fole velo" ("living yarn") and is believed to be imbued with magical powers; "ombiasy" (village wisemen) may tie this yarn around the wrist for protection or wrap it around the bodies of participants in circumcision ceremonies.