Originally Posted by Holice
Take Excedrin......lol No, not really. However, that is unfortunately the nature of the process. You have to set up your quilting station to minimize the results of dealing with the bulk. Make sure your machine and chair is at a comfortable height. Lots of area around the quilt to keep it from draping to the floor and pulling. Use card tables to lay the quilt on. I like the 24"x48" folding tables you can get. They are easy to store when not in use. take breaks before you get too uncomfortable. Stretch your arms and shoulders frequently.
Right on!! I bought a stool that sits high enough that my elbows are more parrallel with the machine and the difference on the shoulder strain is remarkable. You want your hands to not be reaching "up" to move your quilt--which was what my problem was.