Scissors, Sewing Information on Scissors and Shears

Scissors vs. Shears
First off, though people often use the name interchangeably, scissors and shears aren’t really the same thing and are meant to perform different tasks. Shears are used for the heavier cutting jobs, whereas scissors are best used for lighter cutting jobs such as trimming or clipping threads.

Shear Strength
A pair of shears generally measures about 6 inches or more in length. To hold the shears, there is a small ring handle for the thumb, and a larger one for inserting two or three fingers. Holding the shears by placing your fingers through these rings gives better leverage to perform the heavier tasks for which shears excel
Scissors Are Smaller
Scissors range in length from 6 inches on down to 3 inches or even less. Besides being smaller than shears, the handle rings are of equal size

Choosing Quality Scissors and Shears
Most scissors are made of steel. There are two main types of steel used for scissors. The first type, carbon steel, is used to make scissors with the blade and the handle formed in one continuous piece. This type of steel is very strong and stays sharp. Scissors made from carbon steel are usually plated with nickel or chromium to prevent them from rusting.

The other type of steel scissors are those made from stainless steel. A plastic handle is usually fitted to the metal blade. These scissors aren’t as sturdy and don’t retain a sharp edge as long. They’re also harder to re-sharpen. However, they are generally much cheaper.
Types of Scissors
There are many types of scissors available. Here’s a small sampling:
* Applique Scissors: Offset for level cutting
* Bent Handle Dressmaker Shears: Allow the cutting blades to rest flat on the table
* Easy Grip Scissors: With larger handles for those having difficulty holding scissors
* Embroidery Scissors: Used for cutting embroider threads
* Finishing Shears: Either as pinking or scalloping shears, used to cut ravel-resistant seams
* Heavy-duty Shears: For cutting leather, upholstery, drapery, etc.
* Thread Snipping Scissors: For cutting loose threads off sewing