Dale Jr. High School Patch Work Totes
It has always been a dream of mine to teach and, hopefully, inspire kids not just to dream, but to dream BIG! My motto to them is: “If I did it, so can you, and even better.”
In September 2024, I was asked if I’d like to teach art at a local junior high school in a very low-income area. I immediately said yes and began teaching in January 2025. From January through May, I taught 7 classes a day, 1-2 times per week, reaching roughly 250 students between the ages of 12 and 14.
I knew it would be challenging, but I didn’t realize just how challenging it would be. My days were long, and from day one, I was exhausted yet invigorated. It felt amazing to engage and connect with the students, and to let them know that because of my own chaotic upbringing, I truly understood some of their struggles.
The overarching theme for all of our projects was: “It’s okay to mess up, but never quit.” Every project was made using leather remnants from our atelier.
Our first project was to make a leather wallet. I taught the students how to use a paper pattern, trace it onto leather, cut the panels and lace, and finally assemble the wallet.
We also made leather charms that reflected things they loved.
Another special project involved painting sneakers. This one brought back a lot of emotions for me. I remembered how, during junior high and high school, I couldn’t afford name-brand sneakers. I usually wore fakes or hand-me-downs. It brought me great joy to tell students who wanted to paint sneakers but didn’t have an extra pair: “I got you.”
Some students even looked up how much our sneakers retail for and they were shocked to learn they were painting brand new Esquivel X sneakers. I told them: “You’re worth it. It’s my pleasure.”
Our final project was a patchwork tote bag. Each student painted a leather square reflecting their dreams, goals, ambitions, or simply something they love to do. This was the most time-intensive project. I guided them through developing a theme by practicing with acrylics on index cards. Some students painted multiple drafts before we prepped the leather for the final piece. Over about four weeks, each student painted their leather square. Once completed, I brought the pieces back to our atelier. We trimmed and assembled them into one-of-a-kind, functional works of art. Each tote includes artwork from students in all seven classes.
When I revealed the finished totes, the students were thrilled. Even the tough kids couldn’t hide their excitement when they saw the result of their hard work.
We are now auctioning off each tote, and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Dale Jr. High art program. It would be an honor if you would join me in supporting these incredible kids.
I’ve been invited to return next school year, beginning this August, and I’ve gladly accepted. I can’t wait to continue this journey.
Special thanks to Dale Jr. High, Principal Mr. Santiago, art teacher Mrs. Zegarra for welcoming me into your classroom, and to my daughter, Ms. Esquivel (a teacher at DJH), for recommending me to the staff.
Totes Descriptions:
- Leather shell is made from individual leather squares hand painted by students. Each tote was assembled at Esquivel atelier
- Lining is nylon with a leather kangaroo pouch.
- Leather adjustable strap is 1” wide
- Dimensions of totes approx 16.5” high x 14.75” wide
Auction Terms & Conditions:
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Bidding: Each bid placed constitutes a binding agreement to purchase the item if you are determined to be the winning bidder. All bids must be submitted before the official close of the auction. Opening bid for each tote is $200 USD.
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Winner Notification & Payment: The highest qualified bidder for each tote will be contacted directly after the auction closes. Full payment will be due at that time, and payment instructions will be provided upon notification. If payment is not received within 48 hours, we reserve the right to offer the item to the next highest bidder.
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All Sales Final: All totes are sold in "as-is" condition. As these are unique works of art created by students, they are one-of-a-kind. All sales are final, and no returns or exchanges will be accepted.
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Proceeds: We are grateful for your participation. All proceeds from this auction will be donated directly to the Dale Jr. High art program.
There may be slight variations in the appearance of your Esquivel‘s due to the handmade process of cutting, sewing, polishing and finishing.
This allows each product to uniquely age over time.
Enjoy complimentary standard shipping on all US orders.
Other shipping conditions may apply for certain products and locations. Please review our shipping & return policy for details.
















































