The Alvin Synchro-Tilt stool actually tilts backward, which is obviously risky, as there is almost no back support, and all weight rests on the single leg with attached star base.
This is one of a series of articles I’ve prepared for readers while I’m offline this month. Comments have been turned off January 1-31.
Ergonomics is an important part of a studio work space, especially if an artist has back or other orthopedic problems. A comfortable, supportive chair or stool is one of the key components of an orthopedically sound working environment.
I normally work standing up, but like to have the ability to sit for short periods of time while working, so a good, adjustable stool has been on my search list for a while. This fall, I researched the reviews and ordered the Alvin Synchro-Tilt stool. This adjustable drafting stool is described as, “Great to use while working on large easel paintings, canvas projects, framing, drafting, filing, and much more,” on Alvin’s website. Online reviews at both Amazon and Dick Blick are overwhelmingly positive, especially by customers with back problems. As a result of my research, I thought I would be getting a good buy.
The stool is well-built and simple to assemble. It has a small back-stop, making it a hybrid between a flat stool and a properly backed chair. One design flaw is that the chair base is set on a slight forward tilt, but the active spring-tilt mechanism only allows backward tilting motion, not a greater degree of forward tilt. In my opinion, this could create a safety hazard, as a sitter could possibly lean backwards and lose their balance.
Unfortunately, after 2 weeks of daily use, I realized it was aggravating my sciatic problems. The hard ridges across the seat and the fact that the stool does not tilt forward, but backward were 2 probable causes. Another likely problem is that when I work standing, my desk is about 39″ high, so the stool set to its full height caused me to hyperextend my legs, as there is no adjustable foot ring or support. I called Dick Blick to get a return authorization number, which was sent promptly via email.
And there my real problem began. Disassembling the chair is basically impossible. The metal box-shaped base component of the chair assembles by a pressure fit onto the stool’s central support pole. Once on, it would not come off. I’m of average weight, and not a rambunctious, bouncy sitter, but after 2 weeks, it was stuck on for good. The Wrenaissance Man, who is very fit and very mechanically inclined, could not pull the two pieces apart, and declared that it was clearly manufactured to stay assembled once assembled.
So returning this chair is not an option. I have slightly adapted it by reversing the seat on the seat-base box with longer bolts so that it will tilt forward, and by lowering my desk when I use it. Eventually, we’ll probably sell it in a garage or moving sale.
The lesson here is that back and orthopedic conditions are individual problems requiring individual solutions. This chair clearly works for a lot of artists and crafters who are back patients. I recommend that you borrow this chair from a friend or lease it from an office-furniture store for a week or two before you splash out the cash. Once you’ve decided on purchasing this chair, Dick Blick offers the best price on both the chair and shipping. It is also available through Daniel Smith via website and catalog and Texas Art Supply by special order.
