subject: Everything about Drafting Chair Features [print this page] Everything about Drafting Chair Features Everything about Drafting Chair Features
Drafting chairs for a designer are a great blessing. They are one of the few tools a designer can buy that provide both utility and comfort elements in one. Additionally, drafting chairs are an ergonomic gift, they prevent several sprains that other chairs are known for causing. Drafting stools are often compared to drafting chairs, this is a very incorrect comparison to say the least. Drafting stools can never match the utility and especially the comfort that chairs provide, which any experienced designer will advocate.
Purchasing a drafting chair can be a confusing ordeal if you're not aware of all the technicalities of drafting chairs. Therefore, in this short and quick read we'll take a look at the various characteristics of drafting chairs and assist you to make a sound decision when searching for your next drafting chair.
The single and most important aspect of your drafting chair is the backpiece. It is meant to give adequate support to your back and prevent those horrifying aches that drafting stools or long hours of designing on a stool may cause. Also, the backpiece helps you gain additional comfort when you're ready to take a break and kick back. It's of the highest importance that you look for a backpiece that's very ergonomic and easy on your back. Make sure the padding is good all round as well, if you're not 100% sure about the backpiece of a particular drafting chair then it's always best practice to avoid it.
The armrests as simple as they may sound are not to be disregarded when it comes to your drafting chair. Armrests that are too hard should definitely be avoided, they may end up bashing your elbows mercilessly. Search for armrests that are generously padded. Also, try to see if you can find an armrest that is slightly curved at the end allowing you to wrap your hand and fingers around it. Do not go for armrests that are too long, they will end up clashing with your table.
Your legs are going to be hanging all the way down if your drafting chair doesn't have a great foot bar. Make sure your chair has a strong and well placed foot bar to prevent any dangling legs.
A swivel mechanism (which is basically engineering that allows you to tilt and turn sideways) should be well crafted. It should provide just about perfect flexibility nothing too sudden or totally unnecessary. A great swivel mechanism will allow you to spend more time working on your design and less time worrying about moving your chair again and again.
A retractable backpiece is a designer's most wanted element. It is the mechanism that allows you to lean your backpiece backwards and give your back a little well deserved rest. They're not a complete necessity but they're really a nice touch to a good drafting chair.
Now that you know all the important features, shop away!
