Japanese shears

Types of Japanese shears

Japanese shears, or Japanese hair cutting scissors, are precision tools known for their sharpness and cutting performance. They come in different types to suit various hair cutting styles and preferences:

• Convex Edge Shears

  Convex edge shears, also known as curved or convex blade shears, have a smooth, rounded cutting edge. They provide a very clean and precise cut, making them popular among professional stylists. The curved blade reduces friction while cutting, resulting in a smoother cut and less damage to the hair. However, they are more challenging to sharpen and require more maintenance.

• Flat Edge Shears

  Flat edge shears, or straight blade shears, have a flat cutting edge with one sharpened side and another flat side. They create a slightly serrated cut, which can be beneficial for cutting texturizing or layering hair. Flat edge shears are easier to sharpen than convex edge shears and are more durable. They are suitable for blunt cuts and can be used on both wet and dry hair.

• Chunking Shears

  Chunking shears have a blade with teeth on one side and a solid edge on the other, similar to thinning shears. They remove a significant amount of hair with each cut, making them ideal for creating texture and volume in thick hair. Chunking shears are suitable for both professional and at-home hair cutting, as they provide a fast and efficient way to thin out hair or create layered looks.

• Offset Shears

  Offset shears have an ergonomic design that positions the handle at an offset angle compared to the blades. This design reduces strain on the hand and wrist, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. Offset shears are widely used by professional stylists and barbers for their comfort and precision cutting ability.

• Ergonomic Shears

  Ergonomic shears have a design that prioritizes the natural position of the hand and fingers during cutting. They may have adjustable tension, swivel thumb, or other features that enhance comfort and reduce fatigue. Ergonomic shears are suitable for those who experience hand or wrist discomfort while cutting hair.

How to choose Japanese shears

Choosing the correct Japanese scissors or shears can be challenging, given the many options available. Below are some of the many things to consider when choosing Japanese shears:

• Use

  One of the many things to consider when choosing Japanese shears is the specific type of haircutting shears that will be used. Understanding the different types of shears available can be beneficial to buyers. For instance, thinning shears are designed to remove some hair and add texture, while chunking shears remove more hair and create significant texture or volume. In addition, finishing shears are used to eliminate lines and leave a polished look.

• Quality

  While many affordable Japanese shears are available, it is essential to ensure that they are made of high-quality materials. This is because high-quality materials will ensure that the shear is durable, sharper, and can perform better. In addition, high-quality Japanese shears offer a better cutting edge and are better for professional use. On the other hand, cheaper versions may be more practical for home use.

• Brand reputation

  It is essential to consider the brand's reputation before purchasing Japanese shears. This is because brands with a solid reputation ensure that the shears are made from quality materials and designed to function better. In addition, they offer better value for money since they are more durable and can be used for longer periods of time.

• Maintenance

  It is vital to consider the maintenance requirements of Japanese scissors or shears before purchasing. This is because some shears require more maintenance to keep them sharp, while others require less. In addition, some are easy to clean, while others need more time to clean. Many high-quality Japanese shears come with a cleaning kit that makes it easy for users to maintain the scissors or shears.

• Comfort and ergonomics

  Another thing to consider when purchasing Japanese shears is comfort and ergonomics. This is because the comfort of the scissors will depend on the handle design, weight, and overall balance. All of these factors will affect the cutting experience. In addition, shears that are more comfortable to use will be better for longer periods of time.

• Price

  Last but not least, the price of Japanese scissors or shears should be considered before purchasing. This is because they come in different price ranges, depending on the material, quality, and brand reputation. It is essential to choose a shear that will offer better value for money and is more practical for the intended use.

How to use, install, and product safety

How to use

• Cutting techniques

  Japanese hair cutting shears are used for many different types of cutting techniques. They can be used for straight cutting across the section of hair to cut the length of the hair. They can also be used for point cutting to create texture and movement in the hair. They can also be used for slicing cutting to reduce the volume of the hair.

• Hold the Shears Properly

  The thumb should go into the smaller hole, while the index finger sits in the larger one. This grip gives control. Keep the ring or pinky finger inside the third hole if the shears have one.

• Cutting

  Cut with the tips of the blades, not the middle. The middle of the blades is for cutting whole sections. The back of the shears is for sliding cuts. Keep fingers behind the blades for safety.

Installation

• Finding the Right Location

  Install the Japanese shears in a drawer or shelf that is easy to reach and use. Make sure the spot has enough light for cutting hair. Don't put them in a place with a lot of heat or humidity. Those things can hurt the shears over time.

• Protecting the Shears

  Protect the shears by putting them in a soft case or pouch. A case keeps them safe from bumps and other tools. It also helps them stay sharp longer. If the shears have a hook, make sure the hook goes through the case first. This keeps the blades from rubbing together.

• Storing the Shears

  Put the case on a shelf, drawer, or tool bag. Make sure the case is flat or standing up straight. Check the shears often. Open them a few times to keep the tension just right. If they feel too loose, tighten them a little.

Product Safety

• Quality materials

  Japanese shears are made from high-quality materials that are strong and last a long time. The steel used to make them is hard, so the blades won't get damaged easily. This is important for safety because damaged blades can hurt the person's skin.

• Sharp Blades

  Blades that are too blunt can pull or tug at the hair, which is not safe. The shear's ability to make clean cuts can snag the hair and cause damage. The sharpness of the blades should be checked often to make sure they are safe to use.

• Ergonomic design

  Shears are designed to be comfortable to hold and use. The handles are easy to grip, and the shears are balanced well. This makes it less likely for the user to drop them or use them the wrong way. A comfortable shear makes cutting more precise and safe.

• Protective features

  Some Japanese shears have protective features that are good for safety. A tension adjustment tool can keep the blades from rubbing together too much. Some shears come with a lock that keeps them closed when not in use. These features help to prevent accidents and make using the shears safer.

Functions, features, and designs of Japanese shears

Japanese shears have many functions, features, and designs that make them stand out. Below are some of them:

• Function

  These shears cut hair with precision and ease. They are light and comfortable, making them easy to use for long periods. The blades are sharp, and they cut hair without pulling or tugging. Some Japanese shears have a convex edge that makes them even more comfortable.

• Feature

  When buying Japanese shears, the features are essential to consider. These features include the blade type, size, and material. As mentioned earlier, the blade type determines how the scissors cut. The more common blade sizes are 5 inches, 6 inches, and 7 inches. Shears with 5-inch blades are best for cutting bobs and fringes. Those with 6-inch blades offer more general cutting, while 7-inch ones are perfect for cutting long hair. The blades are made of stainless steel, cobalt, or carbon. Cobalt blades are the most durable, while carbon blades are cheaper and prone to rusting.

• Design

  Japanese hair shear designs are ergonomic. They have soft and rubbery handles that offer comfort and prevent slipping. The shears can also have a finger rest that provides more comfort when cutting. Some shears have a swivel handle that moves 360 degrees. It is ideal for people with limited wrist movement.

Q&A

Q1: What are the standard Japanese shears?

A1. The size of the Japanese shears determines the standard measurements. The Japanese scissors come in standard sizes of 5.5 inches, 6.0 inches, 6.5 inches, and 7.0 inches. The 5.5 to 6.0 inches are regular sizes and mostly preferred. The 6.5 inches to 7.0 inches are larger Japanese shears and are standard for people with thicker hair.

Q2: What is the difference between Japanese and German shears?

Japanese shears are lightweight, sharp, and ideal for precision cutting. They are mostly used by professional hairdressers. On the other hand, German shears are heavier, more durable, and blunt. They are suitable for slicing cutting and are mostly used by beginners.

Q3: Can Japanese shears cut bluntly?

Yes. Japanese shears can bluntly cut hair. However, they don’t have a prominent blade like the German shears. The shears have a fine edge that allows it to cut bluntly at any angle.

Q4: How can one tell if Japanese shears are sharp?

Sharp Japanese shears should cut through paper and hair without much force. If the shear bends or pulls the hair, it needs sharpening.

Q5: How can one tell the size of Japanese shears?

To measure the size of Japanese shears, open the blades and place the tip of the shear on the nose and the back on the ear. The distance between the nose and ear will determine the length of the shear.