It’s so easy to neglect our sewing scissors. To casually toss them in a drawer, forgetting about them until we
need them again.
But dull, rough cutting scissors can slow us down, fatigue our hands, and damage our fabric.
Therefore, it’s essential to keep our scissors in good operating order.
Here are ten tips to help you:
Own several pairs of scissors, each for a specific task
need them again.
But dull, rough cutting scissors can slow us down, fatigue our hands, and damage our fabric.
Therefore, it’s essential to keep our scissors in good operating order.
Here are ten tips to help you:
Own several pairs of scissors, each for a specific task
- In other words, use your sewing scissors just for sewing. Have other scissors for cutting paper, metal, or
plastic. And use the right scissors for the job – smaller scissors for lighter cutting jobs, larger, heavier
scissors for bulkier items.
Forcing a cut can damage the alignment of your scissors. If you find yourself straining to make a cut, your
scissors may be to light for the job or may need sharpening. And remember, when cutting heavy items,
start your cut near the pivot, not the tip of the blades.
Hitting a pin can damage the alignment of your scissors and nick the blades. Therefore, when pinning your
fabric, make sure to pin clear of your cutting path.
This can damage the alignment of your scissors, nick the blades, cause the blades to bend or the tips to
break. Store your scissors in a place where they won’t easily fall.
Lint build up can dull blades and clog the pivot area, making cutting more difficult. So after each use, wipe
the blades with a clean, soft cloth.
Apply a light coating of oil (sewing machine or another fine oil) to the blades of your scissors to keep them
cutting smoothly and to prevent rust. Wipe the blades thoroughly to remove any excess oil. To remove any
remaining residue from your scissors, cut through a scrap of fabric a few times.
This will also keep your scissors cutting smoothly. Place drop of oil on the pivot screw and between the
blades at the pivot and open and close your scissors a few times. Thoroughly wipe off any excess, then cut
through a scrap of fabric a few times to remove any remaining oil residue.
Wash your scissors by hand (not in the dishwasher) and dry them immediately and thoroughly. Oil your
scissors after washing.
- Note: Not all scissors manufacturers recommend exposing your scissors to water. You may want to check
with your manufacturer before washing your scissors.
This will also keep them cutting smoothly.
Store your scissors in a cool, dry place – preferably tucked away in their own sheath, pouch, or case. And
store them in a place where they won’t easily fall or be knocked to the floor.
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| Sewing Information, Advice, How-to |
10 Tips for Caring for Your Sewing Scissors