Some simple changes to help reduce sewing related back pain
We want to make sure that you don't fall foul of back pain niggles and twinges while working on your fabrics and projects - so we've put together a quick guide to help you. First of all, is the height of your sewing machine correct? Your sewing machine should allow you to keep your vintage fabrics at elbow height, with your wrists straight. You shouldn't be hunching forward or raising your shoulders to work. Check your chair! Adjust your chair so that your feet should rest flat on the floor - with your sewing table still at elbow height. If you suffer from lower back pain, try using a lumbar support cushion to help you keep a good posture when sewing.
If you're still struggling to get comfortable after following both of the above points, we suggest investing in an adjustable sewing table and / or chair. Or, as a cheaper alternative, you could cut the legs of your table down (If your table is too high) or add some table riser blocks to the table legs (if your table is too low) Make sure you are working in a well lit room: Hunching forward to take a better look at your sewing project will only tense up your neck and back. You could even work next to a window. And finally , take regular breaks: Never sew continuously! Go for a walk, make a cup of tea or even do a few back stretches for a few minutes - it all helps in keeping your back feeling great. Following these steps will help you relieve back and neck pain while working on your vintage fabrics, but a great deal of it is down to getting into good habits. The sooner you start, the better. Happy Sewing :)