Murphy Bowne Designs
About
I am a 2010 graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology. I am also a certified Family and Consumer Sciences teacher in NJ with 10 years classroom experince including teaching 8th grade beginner sewing students to advanced seniors. I am also a professional costumer having worked for several school districts and area theaters.
I stress individual choice with my lessons. Sewing skills can be learned with a project of your choice. I can help you learn the skills you want with the type of projects you want to make.
Sewing and designing is the activity thay makes me happiest. I love igniting this love in others.
Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I prefer an initial phone interview with a student so I can determine the student's goals.
If a student has equipment, I prefer to have the student use their own machine so they can learn that machine. If not, we can use my equipment.
I am willing to travel to a student or have them come to me. virtual lessons can be an option for students nervous about COVID-19 using Zoom or Google Meet.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology.
I am a NJ certified Family and Consumer Science Teacher with 10 years of experience with students 8th grade - 12th.
I have other teaching expereince with students from preschool - adult.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$30 per 30 minute lesson plus $10 if I travel to you.
$50 per hour lesson plus $10 if I travel to you.
Group lessons are negoitable.
How did you get started teaching?
I started my career in healthcare as a nutrition educator, but returned to school because I love sewing and wanted to incorporate that in my career.
I began teaching when I completed the requirements for NJ certification in 2010.
I am now expanding my services to private lessons as I see the focus on sewing and fashion being elimintated from many schools.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with a full range of students from preschool - adult.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Lasy school year I taught Fashion 2, 3 and 4. We were asked to create the costumes for "My Best Suit" in Aida for the school musical. My classes participated and came up with the creations you can view in this video: https://youtu.be/VmPHztwQ2w0
Although the show was cancelled due to COVID 19, I am so proud of the student work.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure the teacher knows what your goals are. If you are interested in creating garments, but the teacher likes quilting it will never work!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. What are your initial and longterm goals for learning this skill?
2. What type of projects do you want to create?
3. What equipment do you have or want to aquire?