Scissors & Cutting

Uncover the Different Types of Scissors and Expand Your Crafting Collection

Crafters already know that there are different types of scissors out there and that these scissors can have an influence on your crafting project. Today, we will disclose the various types of scissors available today, so you can easily find the best scissors for your craft. So, read on if you want to expand on your crafting collection with the right scissors.

What Are Dressmaker's Scissors?

Dressmaker's scissors are characterised by long blades. These long blades have a purpose, since they make it easier to cut fabrics. The blades of dressmaker's scissors are also tapered, with one end being pointed and the other round.

The tips of dressmaker's scissors have a specific function to perform. The blunt tip of the scissors prevents fabric from getting stuck on seams or threads, while the sharp pointed tip gives you the perfect tool for fabric clipping and notching curves.

Crafters should know that dressmaker's scissors come in various sizes, but most of them are considered as heavy-duty scissors. However, if you intend on using the scissors for the cutting of patterns or the trimming of seams, we recommend a pair of dressmaker's scissors with longer length.

What Are Tailor's Scissors?

Tailor's scissors are often confused with dressmaker's scissors, but there is a minor difference between the two. Tailor's scissors tend to be shorter than dressmaker's scissors, making them suitable for projects where less length is required.

One of the projects where tailor's scissors may prove useful is quilting, but also other crafts that involve harder materials. For example, if you are working with leather, a pair of tailor's scissors may prove useful.

What Are Pinking Scissors?

Pinking scissors are characterised by their serrated blades. These serrated blades leave a zig-zag pattern on the fabric after it has been cut.

There are benefits connected to pinking scissors aside from leaving a zig-zag pattern. One of these advantages is prevent fraying and seam unravelling, a problem you can experience with other types of scissors. Pinking scissors tend to be the recommended choice for slippery fabrics too, since the serrated blades provide some extra grip.

Many crafters prefer the pinking scissors for a variety of crafting projects - this is due to the special bent handle design these scissors come with. By having that handle, it is easier to cut on a flat surface or table, so it is no surprise many crafters have this pair of scissors in their collection.

What Are Embroidery Scissors?

As the name suggests already, embroidery scissors are used for embroidery projects. They are characterised by their fine pointy tips, which prevent damage to the fabric you are using them on.

Embroidery scissors are a little more difficult to work with than normal scissors, because these scissors come without the typical loophole handles. Instead, these scissors work like a pair of tweezers. Embroidery scissors also have a typical curved blade, which allows embroiders to get close to the base thread, but leave the fabric intact.

What Are Applique Scissors?

Another type of scissors that can prevent damage to fabric is a pair of applique scissors. Applique scissors are commonly used in quilting projects, but also for rug making.

Applique scissors are characterised by blades that have a paddle-like shape. The blades push the bottom layer of fabric away, which allows you to get a lot closer to the stitching. A pair of applique scissors usually comes with a special handle, which provides a little more comfort while using them.

What Are All-Purpose Scissors?

All-purpose scissors can be found in any household, since they are some of the most popular scissors out there. All-purpose scissors are used to cut anything aside from fabric - this includes paper and similar lightweight materials.

Crafters can recognise all-purpose scissors by their long blades and pointy tips on both blades. Even though the pointy tips allow for a little more delicate work, they are not that suitable for fabric cutting, since they usually leave raffled edges or damage the fabric.

All-purpose scissors are available in a variety of designs, colours, and sizes. However, it is important not to be blinded by some novelty designs, since this can make it a little more difficult to work with the scissors. Instead, choose all-purpose scissors with a comfortable design.

Does Spotlight Provide the Scissors Mentioned in This Article?

Spotlight provides all the scissors mentioned in this article. We are one of Australia's leading crafting suppliers, so crafters will have no problems finding speciality scissors in our catalogue. We also provide other crafting supplies, so be sure to check all our supplies in the crafting catalogue.

Not quite sure which pair of scissors is best for your project? Get in touch with theSpotlight team, and we will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.