Free Motion Quilting and Arthritis
#21
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Originally Posted by Lacelady
Do you have your machine set level with the table? That would make a big difference. If that isn't possible, then a plexiglass surround or similar, that is at least 18in x 24in would help.
Then a silicone coated slider underneath the needle to help smooth the quilt under the needle when you are sewing also makes a difference. There are a couple on the market, but a cheaper version would be the kind made to go in your oven for baking. - I have one that I used sticky tape on the bed of my machine to keep it in place. (if you buy the oven version, just cut out a small hole that is large enough for the feed dogs to stop them chewing it up.
Then a silicone coated slider underneath the needle to help smooth the quilt under the needle when you are sewing also makes a difference. There are a couple on the market, but a cheaper version would be the kind made to go in your oven for baking. - I have one that I used sticky tape on the bed of my machine to keep it in place. (if you buy the oven version, just cut out a small hole that is large enough for the feed dogs to stop them chewing it up.
#22
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Originally Posted by scrappycats
I have little hands and arthritis and also have found that my hands will hurt when FMQ, though probably not as much as yours. I found one of the reasons my hands were hurting was cause I was so tensed up. I worked at keeping my shoulders down out of my ears and every 15 minutes or less I will stop and stretch my hands and roll my shoulders.
#23
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Oh, I always have music on when I quilt. Actually, I turn music on each time I enter a room and there's a radio in each room of our house. It's a quirk of mine but it relaxes me and I listen to many types of music.
#24
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See a rheumatologist ASAP. One who will work with you. He/she can really do best with joint preservation.
I am a retired nurse practitioner and went to the the specialist when I knew the time was right.
Otherwise keep on keeping on. Do smaller amounts at a time as you are able. I had to learn to do things more gently as I found I was using too much force when I was FMQ-ing and thus it hurt more.
I did end up with an older HandiQuilter 16 that I got used, a friend made my table, and when the ProStitcher came out got it on sale! I love it. This and my Pfaff's k
let me keep on quilting.
Oh yeah,I also have the Alto's QuiltCut2 to help with cutting.
Take care,
ali
I am a retired nurse practitioner and went to the the specialist when I knew the time was right.
Otherwise keep on keeping on. Do smaller amounts at a time as you are able. I had to learn to do things more gently as I found I was using too much force when I was FMQ-ing and thus it hurt more.
I did end up with an older HandiQuilter 16 that I got used, a friend made my table, and when the ProStitcher came out got it on sale! I love it. This and my Pfaff's k
let me keep on quilting.
Oh yeah,I also have the Alto's QuiltCut2 to help with cutting.
Take care,
ali
#25
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Originally Posted by Ps 150
Oh, I always have music on when I quilt. Actually, I turn music on each time I enter a room and there's a radio in each room of our house. It's a quirk of mine but it relaxes me and I listen to many types of music.
#27
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I also have the wax thera tub - love it! The heat really soothes my hands. So do warmed oven mitts on my hands & rice bag on my neck (microwaved to warm) when I take a break or watch TV.
I have osteoarthritis in most joints & my back. Water aerobics keeps me moving and in less pain - I notice the difference if I miss a class. Stretching exercises & frequent breaks from sewing, cutting, etc also seem to help.
I try to avoid OTC drugs, but do like a natural product I found at local Health Food Store - Arnica rub & tablets.
Good luck.
I have osteoarthritis in most joints & my back. Water aerobics keeps me moving and in less pain - I notice the difference if I miss a class. Stretching exercises & frequent breaks from sewing, cutting, etc also seem to help.
I try to avoid OTC drugs, but do like a natural product I found at local Health Food Store - Arnica rub & tablets.
Good luck.
#28
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Originally Posted by Happy Treadler
Originally Posted by Ps 150
Oh, I always have music on when I quilt. Actually, I turn music on each time I enter a room and there's a radio in each room of our house. It's a quirk of mine but it relaxes me and I listen to many types of music.
#30
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I hear lavender is good for relaxing, and I bought some last year. What can I make with it so I can use it?? I have it in my sewing room closet, and every time I open it up I get greeted with the wonderful smell of lavender. LOVE it.
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