Hidden Threads

If you’ve used a sewing machine for any length of time, you know how hard the sewing process can be on your back. A few tips can help minimize neck and back strain:

• Set your kitchen timer to go off every half hour, making you stand up and take a break for a few minutes.
• Tilt your sewing machine a few degrees toward you by placing two small ramps or blocks under the two rear sides of the machine. Rubber doorstops are perfect for this. Angling the machine toward you will help reduce strain due to hunched shoulders.
• Make sure your foot pedal is close to your foot and doesn’t wander. Place a piece of rubber carpet stabilizer or a cut piece of a rubber shower mat under it.
• Use a chair that’s low enough that your feet stay flat on the floor.
• Use supplemental light. Squinting and bending forward is hard on your eyes and your back.
• Ideally your working surface should be around the height of your bent elbow as it rests loosely at your side.
• When you sew, sit up straight. Pretend that there’s a rod going from the base of your neck to the base of your spine.
• It’s enticing to keep everything you need nearby, but shifting position and moving around is good for you. Having to stand up to use the iron seems like an inconvenience, but it might keep you pain free for a few more minutes each session.
• Stop sewing when your back and neck start bothering you. Take a warm shower, or perform yoga or tai chi for ten minutes.

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