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Why you need a good pair of embroidery scissors

Why you need a good pair of embroidery scissors

Every stitcher needs a good pair of scissors. I'm not talking about the gigantic all-purpose scissors you keep in your junk drawer. I'm not talking about the round-tip craft scissors you stole from your kid's room. I'm talking about small, sharp scissors that are designed specifically for needlework.

Embroidery scissors make your work better, and who am I kidding, they're just plain adorable. You're going to want more than one pair. Read on for tips on picking the perfect ones.

Small and sharp rules the day

Cross stitch and embroidery is delicate work, and the best scissors are similarly delicate. Embroidery scissors are generally 3 to 4 inches long, but some mini versions are as small as 2 inches. The small size allows you to get close to your work, and makes the scissors easier to manipulate and control.

The blades on embroidery scissors are relatively short and narrow, and both tips and blades are super sharp. Sharp blades are important because they allow you to cut your thread cleanly with a single snip instead of shredding it, which keeps your work neater.

Look for scissors with finger holes that are large enough to use comfortably, but small enough to give you precise control. Embroidery scissors especially for left-handed stitchers are also available.

Fun and functional

Just because embroidery scissors are functional, doesn't mean they have to be boring. Designs range from classic to whimsical, with traditional metal finishes alongside bright modern colors. Think of embroidery scissors as the gems in your stitching tool bag.

Snips and clippers

While basic embroidery scissors can handle most tasks, it can be helpful to have a good pair of thread snips or clippers in your collection. Snips are a perfect choice if your fingers are too big for smaller embroidery scissor handles, or if you have arthritis. They are also great for both right and left handed stitchers.

Traveling with scissors

When I travel, I tend to pack an inexpensive (but still sharp and well designed) pair of scissors or snips, so I don't risk losing a cherished pair.

When traveling by plane, TSA allows scissors with blades less than 4 inches to be packed in carry-on bags, but even items that are permitted can trigger additional screening, and TSA reserves the right to confiscate such items. I have never had a problem bringing small scissors and snips on a plane, but I definitely would not bring my favorite pair just in case.

A thread cutter pendant like the one below is also a great option for travel. You can string it on a cord or chain and wear it around your neck so it doesn't get lost.

Caring for embroidery scissors

Just like fabric scissors, embroidery scissors should be used only for cross stitch and embroidery. Using them to cut paper or other material will make them dull more quickly. Store scissors in a sheath to keep the points sharp.

Use a sheath to protect your embroidery scissors from nicks and scratches

Embroidery scissors come at a range of price points. The best are crafted using high-quality steel and old-world techniques. They can be an investment, but they will last a lifetime.

Ready to find scissors you love? Shop the collection.

5 Responses

Sherry Orrell

Sherry Orrell

June 09, 2020

I was all ready to submit my order when I went back and read the terms and conditions. This company has zero responsibility for anything. Nothing is insured, there is no tracking at the regular rate, if your purchase gets lost its too bad. They say they normally ship from Massachusetts, but if it should be sent from somewhere far away it could be 4 weeks or longer. There is no way to see the point of origin before ordering. If you hit facebook there is nothing there either. This is a new level of misleading the buyer. I really wanted the beautiful linen, but not on these terms. Too my risk for the buyer.

Ada G.

Ada G.

February 02, 2020

TSA does NOT allow the circular thread cutters. The problem is that there is a small circular blade inside, and it’s easily removed.

Maria Manuela Corte-Real Bigail

Maria Manuela Corte-Real Bigail

August 21, 2019

Amigos
Gostaria de adquirir umas tesouras destas. Como posso pedir?
Maria Manuela Bigail

Norma

Norma

July 20, 2017

I really like scissors . I buy all kinds and have them everywhere. I always make each one a fob

Emily

Emily

June 25, 2017

I love having a couple of fun pair of scissors that I keep in various places where I am likely to work on embroidery! I try not to play favorites with my scissors but the Classic cranes always get the most love! One small thing, I actually had my circular thread cutter confiscated because TSA said they do not allow those. It surprised me, but for some reason they don’t allow those. My checked baggage had already gone through, but I was lucky to have a small pair of craft scissors with me as back up! They weren’t ideal, but did the trick in a pinch!

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