Dressmaking shears or scissors are the second most important must-have tools, next to the sewing machine. Professional dressmakers and serious sewing hobbyists give careful thought before investing in a pair of shears or scissors. After all, the best ones tend to be more expensive but can serve them for a lifetime.
Difference between Shears or Scissors
By the way, you may be wondering about the difference between a pair of shears and a pair of scissors. Be in the know that dressmaking shears are those with blades measuring six (6) inches or longer, while their handles come with one finger hole that is much smaller than the other. Moreover, the longer blade is rounded to prevent snagging the large fabric, while the other blade is pointed to ascertain precise snipping.
A pair of scissors on the other hand, have equally sized finger holes in its handles, while the blades measure less than six (6) inches in length. Still, a good pair of scissors is one that can cut cleanly, despite the shorter blades.
Deciding When to Use a Pair of Shears or Scissors
Dressmaker shears are more efficient for cutting larger-sized fabrics, usually when sewing a dress. The longer blades can cut at an angle, with one of the blades having rounded ends to prevent snagging, while the other end is pointed to ensure accurate and clean snipping.
Dressmaker shears are a must have when you need to cut sewing pieces out of larger fabrics. The long, sharp blades can cut at an angle, which makes them much more efficient than the ordinary scissors. Also, the blades’ side bend enables dressmakers to cut a fabric without lifting the material away from the surface of the table, ensuring accuracy; whilst preventing jagged lines.
Most professional dressmakers and sewing hobbyists prefer 8 or 9-inched sized shears because the blades are long enough to give them full control over the entire size of the shears.
The smaller scissors that offer lighter and shorter blades are ideal for less demanding cutting tasks, like quilting projects. In addition, their portability makes them ideal for sewing craft projects.
Buying the Best Dressmaking Shears and/or Scissors
When contemplating options on the kind of dressmaking shears or scissors to buy, is it also important to try them on for size and comfort.
All-metal shears or scissors tend be heavier, so if you are looking for one that is much lighter, there are shears and scissors that come with plastic handles. They are specifically designed as such to put less strain on the wrist and hand.
Another choice to consider are those made from titanium, because this type of metal is much lighter than steel. Shears or scissors with titanium blades are of course, more expensive than the conventional steel-bladed types.
Still, whether your deciding on the plastic-handled or titanium kind, make sure the handles are ergonomically shaped. Make sure that it allows you to cut without the handle pinching or rubbing against the skin of your hand. You may even consider the models that come with padded handles, since the cushioning effect offers additional comfort for larger or more frequent sewing tasks.
Now if you are left-handed, modern technology also took this into consideration. This means buying options for shears and scissors include those specifically designed for left-handed dressmakers, tailors and hobbyists.