I got rid of the neck and shoulder fatigue problem by quilting standing up. I place my machine on my cutting table. It is even better now that I have a styrofoam table surround for this setup -- creates a nice flat area. However, I still think the biggest help is standing up. My shoulders stay low and relaxed that way.

Here are links to the instructions for creating a styrofoam table surround:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g14go...ure=plpp_video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAS25...ure=plpp_video

I just gave my sewing table a good coat of Min Wax, rub it on and buff off. I did this 3 times before I got the results I wanted, but it works great.

I have used one in the past and I guess it helped some but I finally had to resort to quilting my large quilts with QAYG methods. Too painful to push a big quilt. Not all quilts are suitable for QAYG but so many are.

A coat of car wax on metal or plastic housing machines works great. It will need to be done periodically. This also protects the metal housing !!

I agree. They're so worth it and I use mine all the time.

I just took a FMQ class this past weekend. The instructor allowed us to use her Sew Slip sheets. I did notice a difference when I used it, as opposed to not using one. JMHO

If you can afford it, then go for it, if you can't then try a less costly alternative, like heavy plastic or a silcone baking sheet.....it just really helps with the drag, and push and pull.......I also think a level surface really helps am going to be building up my quilt table with the same styro from Hone Depot that I used for my design wall.

Prism99 - thanks for those links! I have read about someone buying a blank door and cutting out the place for the machine but this is even better! I have a Juki with a little table that I think it would be easier to cut the Styrofoam to fit it rather than trying to get right next to the machine.

I tried one of those slider sheets at a class one time - did not care for it.

I find the supreme sliders too pricey for my blood. I use a non stick microwave oven liner. It is somewhat tacky and can be repositioned. It's only about $5 and is easy to cut. I just cut out the freearm area so I can get to my bobbin case. I tape down the edges.
I wouldn't quilt without some kind of slider. My shoulders and arthritic fingers would never forgive me.

I got a slider when I bought my Horizon. The first time I used it, it stretched out aroung the needle/ bobbin area and now nothing slides over it. Glad I didn't spend the $50 they said it costs! I'd save my money if I were you and try one of the cheaper options mentioned here, IMHO!