Tip: Sharpening Scissors
Posted by: parksbirdpatterns on: July 16, 2009
- In: Sewing Tips
- Comment!
When I was taking Home Economics at UNC-Greensboro in the 1970’s, we got a good deal on scissors made by Gingher (rhymes with”singer”). I paid $7.00 for a pair of ”top of the line” scissors. In 1973, that was a lot for a student and a lot for scissors, but I still have those scissors (not the ones shown in the photo). A small sharpening stone came with each pair of scissors purchased and we were shown that you ONLY sharpen the top cutting edge on scissors. This edge is the one that looks like a knife. You only sharpen the side that is beveled (as shown in the photo). You do not need to sharpen the bottom blade of the scissors. Move the sharpening stone in ONE direction only – from the top toward the bottom edge of the blade. Do not file back and forth like fingernails; this could damage the blade.
2 Responses to "Tip: Sharpening Scissors"
July 17, 2009 at 10:04 PM
Hi Diane – thanks for posting! With scissors, you do get what you pay for and I love my Ginghers. I don’t do anything special with my sewing scissors besides make sure I don’t use them as household scissors – just for fabric. I have them professionally sharpened every few years, but my sharpening stone still works fine for me. Another tip about scissors – try to never drop scissors. If they drop in the OPEN position, they can “nick” their own cutting surface and be irreparably damaged.
Diane P
Parksbird Patterns
July 17, 2009 at 12:36 PM
I recently purchaed Gingher scissors and I wish I had bought them a long time ago . They were about 40$ for 8 in . They cut fabric like butter. Definitly worth the money. My family knows to NEVER use my scissors for anything ! Never cut paper with these or any good ones. I hope my pair lasts as long as yours . Do you do anything to keep them in good shape?