The right chair for sewing

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Are you UNCOMFORTABLE while sewing?

Do you get EXHAUSTED very soon?

Do you have BACKACHES or STIFF SHOULDER while or after sewing?

Did you know that the right chair and the right posture may be a factor for all the above problems!

Yes, it is true!!! A comfortable, ergonomic chair can make sewing comfortable. It battles fatigue, aching backs and stiff shoulders consequent to sewing or machine quilting while sitting on poorly designed chairs.

For anyone who spends much time sewing while sitting at the sewing machine or even at machine quilting, must use a well-made chair. To be at ease while sewing and even after, select the right type of chair.

PROBABLE HAZARDS:

People tend to use uncomfortable shoulder, elbow, and wrist postures (See Figure below) while sewing because of improper chair height or position.

ü  People generally sit or stand for long periods in the same position, resulting in discomfort of the back and neck, and reduced circulation to the legs.

Ergonomic Chairs for Sewing should be Adjustable in Several Ways:

The U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s standards for an ergonomic sewing chair include:

• Easy to adjust chairs so that the sewer has a comfortable posture
• Seat and back rest that tilt and adjust easily
• Padded back rest with rounded edges that supports sewer’s lower back.
• Gently sloped or “waterfall” front edge to help prevent the chair’s edge from pressing into the backs of the sewer’s legs.
• Cushioned and contour seat to distribute the sewer’s weight evenly and avoid creating pressure points.

Other Ways to Avoid Probable Hazards are:

Position the chair at a suitable distance from the sewing table so that the sewers can execute their tasks without pulling their elbows away from the body.

Back rest should be at a 90-100° angle to the seat.

The height of the chair should be accurate when the work surface is at the height of the elbow. Ideally, the feet should rest flat on the floor, and the knee should be slightly higher than the seat of the chair. For them who use a treadle or pedal, the seat may be a little lower.

Schedule regular, small breaks to stretch and/or adjust posture.

In order to pursue your hobby or work without any hassle, it is imperative that you understand the above heath hazards and make the required changes. Happy sewing.