|
|
| KNOW-HOW |
| |
| Needlework and Embroidery Scissors |
Scissors can be like gold dust in a cross stitcher's house. Apart from being one of the most well used and useful needlework tools you'll need, they're also becoming one of the most versatile. The perfect pair of scissors may make your stitching moments completely hassle-free.
How they work
The many different types of scissors in the shops today are designed for a particular job. They can have varying blade lengths which determine how long individual 'cuts' will be, and their handle sizes can be designed to fit one or more fingers. Usually, the tougher the materials you're cutting, the more fingers needed to close the scissors' blades. For example, dressmaking scissors have large, long blades with offest handles. These allow you to cut with long strokes close to the table top, whereas kitchen scissors have shorter, sturdy blades for added strength. Both these scissors have large handles that allow you to put three or four fingers in the lower handle, for extra control and force. Needlework scissors, on the other hand, are quite different. They are usually much smaller than other scissors and are designed for precision. The small handles with only enough room for one finger and thumb, have sharp, pointed blades for slipping under stitches and trimming thread ends.
What makes a good pair?
First and foremost, scissors are simple cutting tools. Their blades are usually made from stainless steel, ground to a clean, sharp edge. Different companies add various components to the steel to make them stronger. The shape and materials used for the handles makes a great difference to the comfort of the scissors. Metal handles can sometimes be cold and hard on the hands, but in most cases the scissors are usually small and light. Plastic handles are hard but practical. Check that the handles on the pair of scissors you are going to buy have no hard or rough edges and that they fit your fingers as comfortably as possible.
Which size do you choose?
If you are looking for needlework scissors, there are two sizes : 10cm and 13cm. The longer scissors are suitable for trimming short lengths of fabric as well as snipping threads. Embroidery scissors are shorter and used for cutting threads. The size you choose is really a matter of personal preference. The larger sizes are multipurpose and generally better value for money, but because the handles are slightly further away from the fabric there is less control for very precise work, whereas embroidery scissors are more accurate and safer for snipping and removing any mistakes from your work.
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
