Ever wonder about what scissors to buy? Here’s a brief tutorial.
First, I suggest you buy the best scissors you can afford for sewing. If you buy good scissors and follow a few simple rules they will probably last you a lifetime.
The difference between scissors and shears? From what I’ve read scissors have straight, flat handles and shears have bent handles that form around your fingers. I’ve also read that shears are for heavier cutting jobs. Scissors show up in your junk drawer, shears show up in the old movies usually in someone’s back!
You should be able to find a good pair at your local fabric store. Of course these days you can always go online. When I bought my first good pair I got the same brand the women at the fabric store used. I figured they cut all day long, right? I upgraded a notch when some others were on sale. I own several various pairs, I prefer carbon steel, when the handle and blade is one piece.
This type of steel is strong and stays sharp longer. I own applique scissors, which look like a Pelicans bill, pinking shears for fabrics that tend to fray, several embroidery scissors which are very small and used to cut delicate threads in tight places (I have an Embroidery Machine).
Also in my collection are snippers, and a rotary cutter.
It is essential to have a sharp blade, especially on a rotary cutter, you should not have to go over a cut more than once, if you do it’s probably time to change the blade. You will place more stress on your hands and wrists when your blades are dull.
On left-handed scissors: I am left-handed. I grew up using right-handed scissors. If you want scissors for lefties you may need to special order them.
I also own an old pair of electric scissors, they drive me crazy, but that’s me.
The following rules should help your scissors last:
Keep them dry and dust free, store them in a closed position, sewing boxes are good.
Use your sewing scissors for fabric only! Keep them under lock and key from the family if need be. I have seen members of my family use scissors for prying large staples from heavy cardboard boxes, cutting plastic boil n’ bags, and of course paper.
UNbelievable!!
View our Scissors and Cutting Tools.
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