Fabric cutting shear

Types of fabric cutting shears

Fabric cutting shears are essential tools for sewing enthusiasts and professional tailors. They are designed to make precise cuts on fabric without causing fraying or damaging the material. Different types of fabric cutting shears are available in the market, each tailored to specific cutting needs.

• Dressmaker's Shears

  These are the standard shears for cutting fabric. They have long blades and a comfortable grip, allowing smooth and straight cuts. Dressmaker's shears are suitable for various fabric types, from lightweight to heavy upholstery.

• Pinking Shears

  Pinking shears are easily identified by their zigzag blade edge. They are primarily used to cut fabric and prevent fraying at the edges. The serrated edge creates a zigzag pattern that helps finish the raw edges of the fabric while adding a decorative touch.

• Rotary Cutters and Mats

  Although not traditional shears, rotary cutters are worth mentioning as fabric cutting tools. They have a circular blade that cuts fabric with a slicing motion. Rotary cutters are ideal for cutting multiple layers of fabric or intricate shapes and curves. They work best with self-healing mats, which provide a smooth cutting surface.

• Apron Shears

  Apron shears have shorter blades and are designed for snipping and trimming tasks. They are perfect for cutting threads, notches in fabric, or reaching tight areas. Their compact size makes them handy for fine detail work in sewing projects.

• Embroidery Scissors

  These small scissors are specifically designed for cutting thread and fabric in embroidery and quilting projects. They have sharp points and curved blades that make precise cuts. Some fabric cutting tools have decorative handles and embellishments.

How to choose fabric cutting shears

Buying fabric scissors for cutting paper can be tricky. There are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Here are some things to look out for:

• Type of Fabric

  Consider the type of fabric that will be used most frequently. If delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon are primarily used, opt for shears with a finer point on the blade and sharper edges. These will cut the fabric more cleanly without fraying the edges. Heavier fabrics like denim or canvas will require more sturdy shears with a thicker blade to handle the weight without bending or breaking.

• Frequency of Use

  The frequency of use is also important. If the shears are only used occasionally, a cheaper pair may be acceptable. However, if they are used frequently, investing in a higher quality pair that will last longer is worth it.

• Budget

  Quality fabric cutting scissors can be expensive, so it's important to consider how much is willing to spend. Cheaper models may be sufficient for occasional use, but those who sew regularly will need to invest in something more durable. There are options available to fit any budget, so take the time to compare prices before making a decision.

• Warranty

  Many companies offer warranties on their fabric scissors, so be sure to ask about this before making a purchase. A good warranty can give peace of mind, knowing the scissors can be returned or exchanged if there is any problem. Some companies, like Gingher, offer lifetime warranties, while others may only offer a year. Be aware of the terms of the warranty, as some only cover manufacturing defects and not normal wear and tear.

• Reviews

  Take the time to read reviews from other customers before purchasing fabric scissors. These can provide valuable insight into the quality and performance of the product from someone who has actually used it. Look for comments on the smoothness of the cut, how comfortable they are to use, and whether they hold their sharpness over time. These factors can help determine if the scissors are worth the investment based on other people's experiences.

How to use and product safety

• Marking and Layering:

  Use tailor's chalk or fabric marker to mark the fabric. Then, fold the fabric or lay it on the cutting mat in the required shape or pattern. Ensure that the fabric layers are even and aligned so the cut will be precise.

• Cutting with Precision:

  Open the scissors and place the fabric along the cutting edge. Use the thumb and forefinger to cut the fabric, starting at the edge and moving inward. Do not force the cut; let the shear do the work. Cut along the straight lines marked on the fabric until all layers are cut.

• Finishing the Cut:

  Once the cut is complete, carefully lift the fabric pieces and remove any remaining pins, clips, or marking tools. Gently run the fabric pieces under cool water to remove any chalk or marker residue. Dry the pieces with a paper towel and iron them to remove wrinkles.

Functions, features, and design of fabric cutting shears

Functions

• Cutting fabric

  These shears are designed to cut fabric and cloth easily and leave a smooth finish. They will quickly ruin other household scissors and dull quickly if used to cut anything else.

• Applique

  Some fabric cutting scissors are designed for embroidery and quilting. They can make the short, precise cuts needed for appliques to be created.

• Paper

  While the fabric scissors are specifically designed for cutting fabric, they can also cut paper. Some are specifically designed to cut paper and fabric but have a special coating that makes them suitable for cutting both types of material.

Features

• Ergonomic handles

  These are handles designed to be comfortable and reduce fatigue when cutting for long periods. Some are soft-gripped, while others have a cushioned grip.

• Precision blades

  These are blades manufactured to be sharp and can make clean cuts through fabric without fraying or tearing the edges. They are usually made of stainless steel and have a fine point for precision cuts.

• Spring-loaded

  Some fabric-cutting scissors are spring-loaded and make it easier to open and close the shears. They require less effort and are ideal for people who have reduced hand strength or are recovering from surgery on their hands or arms.

• Adjustable tension

  These shears have an adjustable tension that can be set according to one's cutting needs. Some may require more tension to cut thicker fabrics, while others may need less tension.

Design

• Classic

  The classic design features stainless steel blades and plastic handles. They are not spring-loaded and may require more effort to open and close when cutting.

• Rotary

  Rotary fabric-cutting scissors feature a round blade that rotates as it cuts along the fabric. They are ideal for cutting multiple layers of fabric at once and can glide easily over the surface without snagging or pulling the fabric.

• Applique

  Applique fabric-cutting scissors have a unique design that features a small, pointed blade and a larger handle. The pointed blade fits into tight spaces, making it easier to cut curves and corners in fabric for applique projects.

• Serger

  Serger fabric-cutting scissors are designed to create clean, finished edges on knit or woven fabric. They have a unique blade design that offsets one blade higher than the other. This allows the user to cut and stitch the fabric simultaneously for a professional-looking finish.

Q&A

Q1: How to keep fabric cutting shears sharp?

A1: The shears should only be used on fabric and nothing else, as cutting through paper or cardboard will dull the blades. To keep them in good cutting condition, the blades should be oiled regularly, and the tension should be checked to ensure the blades are aligned correctly.

Q2: What is the difference between pinking shears and fabric cutting shears?

A2: Pinking shears have saw-like, zig-zag blades that leave a decorative edge on fabric to prevent fraying . Fabric cutting shears have smooth blades that cut fabric cleanly and straight. There are also pinking fabric cutting shears that have the same smooth blades as regular shears but with a decorative edge to cut and finish fabric edges simultaneously.

Q3: Can regular scissors be used for fabric cutting?

A3: Fabric scissors are specifically designed to cut fabric smoothly without snagging or leaving marks. While regular scissors can cut fabric in a pinch, they may not provide the same clean, precise cuts as fabric scissors. If one is serious about sewing or quilting, it's worth investing in a good pair of fabric scissors that will outlast regular scissors and give better results.

Q4: How does one cut fabric with shears?

A4: To cut fabric with shears, one should spread the fabric out on a flat surface and fold it along the grainline if cutting along a straight line. Then, open the shears wide and make a single, smooth cut without stopping or backing up, as this could cause the fabric to shift or snag. Shears should be cut in a single motion to ensure a clean edge; if several layers of fabric are cut, the same should be done with single layers to achieve the best results.