Are You Getting The Most Out of Your Drafting Chair?

The proper use of your drafting chair will make you a more effective designer, artist, or architect. That being said, drafting chairs are commonly left unadjusted and full potential in the workplace is never reached. In today's post we'll highlight 5 of the various ways you can improve your sitting experience and achieve higher comfort while operating from your drafting chair.

1.) Adjust Height

If you find yourself hunched over while working or reaching up regularly from your chair, there's a good chance a simple height adjustment will help you operate more effectively. Most drafting chairs adjust easily via simple lever underneath the chairs seat. Those who use ergonomic seating properly often adjust chair height numerous times per day to minimize body movements and improve posture. Try adjusting your chair height to find a comfortable position that works best for you and your body and don't be afraid to adjust multiple times for a variety of applications!

2.) Practice Good Posture

Practicing good posture is just plain smart. Sitting upright and ergonomically correct will ensure good blood flow and more comfortable days at work. Various studies have shown that those who operate from a slouched or hunched position reach high levels of fatigue much quicker and thus operate at lower levels of productivity. Meeting with your physician to discuss your sitting position will provide valuable insight as to where you can improve posture at work. You can also visit several excellent ergo friendly sites online with posture tips for improved performance while working from your drafting chair.

3.) Lumbar Support

Lumbar support has become a standard feature on most drafting stools in 2014. The industries top brands have added this feature in both adjustable and integrated styles to help users operate more comfortably. If your chair has an integrated lumbar support, you are already reaping some very helpful benefits. However, those using a drafting chair with adjustable lumbar support will have a distinct advantage... if they take advantage of the feature! Be sure to test your chairs lumbar support feature while working. Try a few different settings and determine which ones work best for your specific work style. Low back pain is a major concern when working and the proper use of your chairs adjustable lumbar support will have you ready to defeat this common issue.

4.) Adjust Arms

If your chair is outfitted with fixed arms it may be time for an upgrade! Adjustable arms are a must for those long days at the office. Interior designers, architects, and artists will all benefit greatly by using a drafting chair with height and width adjustable arms. Brands like Mayline, Global Total Office, and Eurotech offer a variety of affordable models to consider. If your chair already has adjustable arms it's time to put those bad boys to use! Throughout the day, try adjusting to various heights and widths while working. You'll find more support and comfort in no time at all! It's sad to say that most opt to add all the bells and whistles possible on their chair but commonly fail to use the features properly. Don't be afraid to test your chairs limits and reach your full potential.

5.) Adjust Back Angle

Most well made drafting chairs offer a tilt feature that will allow you to adjust the chairs back angle with the pull of a lever. Do you ever find yourself working from an angle that your back has no contact with the chair back? If so you're not alone! Many of us are so used to accepting this common practice that regularly leads to back problems. Adjust your chairs back angle while working throughout the day. When computing, drafting, and drawing we typically lean forward to engage in our works. Tilting the back of your chair to meet the curve of your body will provide better support while simultaneously improving your workplace functionality.