Pain in the upper back is from hunching and stretching your neck over too far. You might try putting your chair lower, so the machine is closer to your face and eyes.

Really appreciate all the help. Thanks to you all.

DH just got a promotion at work, making him a manager, so he ordered me an Executive Office Chair as a surprise at his work cost. It's on wheels, has lumbar support and has adjustable height.

Ditto.

please use an adjustable height, adjustable back (depth and height), short arms (if you use arms). I haven't read all the other posts (yet) on the recommended chairs, but if your back is hurting you should think about using a better chair! The speaker last week at our guild meeting was a Physical Therapist who addressed many of our aches and pains... he spent a lot of time going over the chair-choosing guidelines. At first glance, there are many great suggestions on this thread! Protect your back!! Stop and stretch occasionally... even get up and walk around for a minute or two!

adjustable office chair works the best for me

Mine adjust up and down so I can get at the right height for me. All tables are not made to benefit everyone's particular height.
Tammy

Please try out whatever you are looking at first.

I did try out several chairs including the Hermann Miller aeron chair that was really recommended because of the features. It didn't fit my body.

I ended up with a Swopper ... you can see them on www.sit4less.com on the net. It is like I am sitting on a balance ball only pins will not puncture it. It is adjustable. I feel like it forces me into correct posture. I have it on a throw rug as it doesn't have wheels and I don't want to mar the wood floor.

I do have arthritis and love the extra help I get with this thing.

ali

tilt your machine--you will be amazed at the diference it makes

I agree, I have used the tilt table, and have the petal also at a similar angle, (and height)for both feet I have found that this helps. Now I have a big acrylic bed for my sewing machine and don't think the tilt will work. More than anything it makes you sit back, instead of leaning over your work.

Taking frequent breaks are really important. I found that when you start making mistakes, stop, take a break. Relax, and when you come back it will be better. I have also heard--so I sure can't prove it--that if you are trying to learn a new skill do it right before you go to bed. I guess there is some kind of imprinting that goes on, while you sleep.