When I sew I get a backache in my upper back and I wonder if it is from my chair (plus my tension!). I'm wondering what types of chairs other people use. Mine is a casual dining chair which rocks, turns and is on wheels. Sounds good, right?

I am considering purchasing the "gypsy sit upon" to lift myself up higher and have a more comfortable seat. I have also seen that people put things under their machine to tilt it forward. Helps with backache

did you see the chair tips on this thread?
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-147223-1.htm#4027369

I have an old chair from a government surplus auction...it's actually very comfortable. It's one of those metal waiting room chairs with a thick cushion seat and back.

I've been using an adjustable office chair. Has helped alot!!!

I was going to buy one of the gypsy sit upon but I found at Meijer the same thing in the exercise aisle and it is made by "The Firm" for $15. Someone else found one at Walmart made by Danskin. I sit on mine all the time and I don't have any lower back aches. I did find at first that I was sore in my sides but that is because it is making me use my core muscles to sit up straight (which is a good thing!) Oh and I have just adjustable task chair from Office Depot.

I spent the money on an adjustable office chair with lumbar support. It has paid off for me. Yes, I still get neck tension but that's from hunching over. My lower back has been in tip-top shape.

Thanks for the link. I'm brand new here and I don't know my way around the site yet. Some good ideas! Now if I can just find them again when I need them! :wink:

You can bookmark posts that you want to review again and again. If you look on the upper Left corner, above the first post there is a spot to bookmark Watch just click on bookmark and don't forget to push save!!!!

Just follow the link to the tips then bookmark the page (click the tab labelled 'bookmark' at the top left ;')

I use an adjustable office chair, tilt my machine, and when I need a break, I use my shiatsu massage cushion!

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.

I want a saddle chair!

Just a cheap adjustible, armless, office chair for me.
Just watch out for the ones with a plastic rim on front of seat, found this cuts into your legs and had to stuff batting around it.