I'm only 5'1" and use a chair with wheels, no arms cause I can't stand them. My chair was purchased at my sewing machine dealer and is totally adjustable. When sewing I use the foot pedal so the right foot is on that and the left foot is usually resting on the pedestal legs. There is no way I could sit for hours sewing on a backless chair. I keep my ironing board within arms reach, just have to roll the chair over to it, but I do have to get up and walk over to the cutting table, even for minor trimming.