Scissors & Cutting

The Different Types Of Scissors You Will Need For Crafting

Nowadays, there are so many different types of scissors available. Crafters know this all too well, since they are often left with a little more than a dozen different scissors in their collection. But which scissors do you actually need for crafting projects? Read our information below to find out!

What Are Dressmaker's Shears?

One pair of crafting scissors you are likely to encounter are the so-called dressmaker's shears. The scissors are characterised by a long-tapered blade and a blunt tip, this prevents the scissors getting caught on seams and threads.

Dressmaker's shears are recommended for anyone who works with fabrics on a regular basis. So, whether you create garments or quilts, this is a pair of scissors you will need in your collection.

Please note that there is a difference between dressmaker's shears and tailor's scissors. Tailor's scissors are considerably shorter and ten to be more suitable for quilting projects. They are also suitable to cut through heavy-duty fabrics.

What Are Pinking Shears?

Pinking shears are quite unique, since they create a special zig-zag edge when cutting the fabric. While this may sound of little use to you, pinking shears actually prevent fabric from fraying and unravelling on the seams. Therefore, this pair of scissors is an absolute must for anyone who works with fabrics.

What Are Embroidery Scissors?

Embroidery scissors are fine scissors with a tiny pointy tip. They are designed in such a way so you can get as close as possible to your fabric without causing it any damage. To get you even closer to your fabric, these scissors also tend to have a slight curve on the blade.

What Are Applique Scissors?

Applique scissors are quite similar to embroidery scissors, since they perform a similar function. Applique scissors are also used to cut and trim close to your fabric without actually causing it damage.

Naturally, there are some dedicated applications for applique scissors. Applique scissors are commonly used to make rugs, but some crafters also use it to cut thread during a manual sewing project.

What Are General-Purpose Scissors?

Whether you are a crafter or not, everyone tends to own a pair of general-purpose scissors. General-purpose scissors are commonly found in any household's kitchen, used for anything from cutting paper to opening up packets of food.

While it is tempting to use a pair of general-purpose scissors on fabric, it is not recommended. General-purpose scissors can cause fraying or can damage to the fabric. So, never use this kind of scissors for fabric related projects.

How Do I Maintain My Crafting Scissors?

Some crafting scissors can be more expensive than others, so taking good care of them is recommended. There are some things you can do to keep your scissors in mint condition, so be sure to read our tips below if you want to extend the lifespan of your favourite crafting scissors.

No matter which kind of crafting scissors you own, you must always avoid the combination of scissors and moisture. Scissors tend not to react well to moisture over time, so try to store and use your scissors accordingly.

When you use scissors on a regular basis, it can cause some problems with the so-called pivot screw. When the pivot screw becomes less tight, it will influence the tightness of the scissors too. So, make sure to tighten the pivot screw with a screwdriver every now and again. You should also apply a little drop of oil on the screw, this will keep it in good condition. However, please take care and wipe away any remaining oil.

Finally, when you have used a pair of scissors for a specific craft, always make sure you wipe the scissors clean before you store them away. Please note that this does not only apply to scissors used on tape and other sticky materials, it is also required for scissors used on fabric.

Where Can I Get These Crafting Scissors?

Spotlight provides all these basic crafting scissors, as well as more advanced crafting scissors you may require for your crafts. We stock scissors for sewing, but also for other crafts such as embroidery, papercraft, and loads more. Check out the collection today to get some great deals!