Please be careful of yourself.
*Puts on safety goggles* A shift down the illustration mines can be bad for your health.
There’s a million jobs more dangerous than illustrating children’s books.
But. . .
. . . leaning forward into your work for hours. Contorting yourself for the right gestural brushstroke. Repeating the same movement over and over. It builds up.
I’ve trapped a nerve in my back. It’s my own stupid fault. I’ll be fine, it’s just annoying that I’m working at the speed of a lazy snail because my back and leg hurt.
But -
I’ve found some things to help me look after myself in future. And they might be useful to you too!
Draw Stronger by Kriota Willberg I’ve ordered this - it sounds perfect for people who draw all day. There’s an excellent interview with the author on The Magic Box which includes tips and info on keeping healthy while drawing.
Ergonomics tips for Artists - four part short video series on setting up your workstation. It’s aimed at animators who use digital tools but there’s useful stuff for everyone.
Desktop Easel / Drawing board - A friend lent me a desktop easel so I could draw on a slope instead of on a flat surface. It’s helped my back BUT messes with the way ink flows out of my dip pen. I’m still experimenting with the right height / slope ratio. It’s ok for doing pencils. I’m not sure it’s the perfect solution but it’s heading the right way.

Remember, just because you’re drawing fires instead of fighting them doesn’t mean you’re not at risk.
Stay safe out there!
If you have any tips on drawing without hurting yourself, I’d love to hear!
Thank you! These are really useful tips! I would also add making small pauses and stretch to give the back and hand a break.
I hope you are feeling much better now Nanette 💛 breaks even little one 5min are essential not only for the muscles but also for the eyes (if working digital), i alternate from drawing seated and standing and i feel that helps a lot, plus doing exercises for the wrist are also a nice thing to prevent injuries, my physiotherapist is always reminding me of this one!