Choosing the Best Dressmaking Scissors and Shears

 

Dressmaking shears or scissors, after the sewing machine, are the second most critical must-have tools. Professional dressmakers and serious sewing enthusiasts think twice before purchasing a pair of shears or scissors. After all, the greatest ones are usually more expensive but can last a lifetime.

Scissors are a common sewing cutting tool. The handles are the same size, the blades are the same length and form, and while the size can range from little to long, blades are normally no longer than 25cm / 10′′. When you place scissors on the worktable in front of you, they seem symmetrical on both sides, regardless of whether the blades are open or closed. I use the paper shears to cut out a purchased or self-drafted sewing pattern. I also use my long and solid tailors shears when cutting out thick denim, canvas, or even wools for a tailored skirt or jacket.

Because both handles are the same size, these can be difficult to use when cutting fabric. This makes it difficult to keep the blade straight to the cutting table, resulting in less accurate cutting lines. The beautiful thing with fabric scissors is that you can readily find left handed scissors, which is not always the case with shears.

By the way, you might be asking what the difference is between shears and scissors. Dressmaking shears have blades that are six (6) inches or longer, and their handles have one finger hole that is significantly smaller than the other. Furthermore, the longer blade is rounded to avoid snagging the large fabric, whereas the other blade is pointed for precision snipping.

A pair of scissors, on the other hand, has equal-sized finger holes in the handles and blades that are less than six (6) inches long. Regardless of the shorter blades, a good pair of scissors can cut smoothly.
Dressmaker shears are more efficient for cutting larger-sized textiles, such as those used in the construction of a dress. Longer blades can cut at an angle, with one end rounded to prevent snagging and the other end sharp to enable accurate and clean snipping.

Dressmaker shears are essential for cutting sewing components from larger materials. The long, sharp blades can cut at an angle, making them far more effective than regular scissors. Furthermore, the side bend of the blades allows dressmakers to cut a cloth without raising it away from the table's surface, ensuring accuracy and preventing jagged lines.

Most professional dressmakers and sewing enthusiasts choose 8 or 9-inch shears because the blades are long enough to allow them complete control over the entire length of the shears. Smaller scissors with lighter and shorter blades are suited for less strenuous cutting jobs such as quilting. Furthermore, because of their portability, they are great for stitching creative projects. When deciding on the type of dressmaking shears or scissors to purchase, it is also crucial to test them on for size and comfort.

All-metal shears and scissors are heavier, so if you want something lighter, there are shears and scissors with plastic handles. They are specifically developed to reduce stress on the wrist and hand.
Titanium-made items are another option to explore because they are substantially lighter than steel. Titanium-bladed shears and scissors are, of course, more expensive than steel-bladed models.

Regardless of whether you choose the plastic-handled or titanium variety, ensure sure the handles are ergonomically contoured. Check that the handle does not pinch or press against the skin of your hand when you are cutting. Consider versions with padded handles, since the cushioning effect provides additional comfort for larger or more frequent sewing operations.

If you are left-handed, modern technology has taken this into account as well. This implies that shears and scissors built exclusively for left-handed dressmakers, tailors, and hobbyists are available for purchase.