The Cutting Edge

All scissors are not created equal.  I have a dozen or so pair, which sounds like a whole lot.  And it is, I guess, considering I do most of my cutting with a rotary cutter.  But different scissors are best for different things.  Success at the sewing machine is completely dependent on accurate cutting.  You can't cut accurately with poor cutting tools.  Here are some things to keep in mind when building your cutting tool box.

Scissor cuff bracelet by Thomas Jaillot

• Do you have a local scissor sharpener?  If so, invest in high-quality scissors.  They'll last a lifetime if properly sharpened.  Yes, they're expensive at first, but in the long run they're the most economical option.  If you don't have a sharpener in your area...
• Sharpness counts, but so does weight.  Heavier scissors are easier to control and cut more accurately.
• Think about handedness and the size of your hands, as well.  I have large hands, so I look for generously sized finger holes, or no finger holes at all.  Spring-action scissors are good for folks who don't have a lot of hand strength.
• Bent blades = shears, for cutting fabric flat on a table.  Straight blades = scissors, for cutting above the table.
• Mark your paper-cutting scissors, and keep your fabric scissors out of reach.  Cutting paper with fabric scissors really does dull the blades very quickly.
• Keep a pair of very small, very sharp scissors in your toolbox.  Purchase "little sharpies" with short blades, so you have lots of cutting pressure all the way to their tips.  
• If you find a pair of scissors that work especially well for you, keep an eye out for a good sale and buy a backup pair.  Leave them sealed in their packaging until you need them.
• Thread snips are a useful tool.  I tie mine on a long, bright ribbon so they're easy to find on a cluttered worktable.