The Scissors I Trust: 4 Pairs I Cannot Live Without

Dear readers,

You may know that I’m a lover of all sewing tools. I sometimes joke that I started a pattern business just to justify my purchases of professional equipment and every little tool you can think of. When it comes to cutting tools, I firmly stand in the scissors camp of the scissors/rotary cutter debate, and I wanted to share with you the four pairs of scissors I simply cannot live without (none of this is sponsored, and I’m not including links).

1. The IKEA SY Scissors: My Go-To for Paper

When it comes to cutting paper patterns or dealing with rough materials that I wouldn’t dare use my fabric scissors on, the IKEA SY Scissors are my heroes. They’re affordable, reliable, and sharp enough to get the job done without risking my more expensive tools. At just a fraction of the cost of professional-grade scissors, they get the job done and last forever. However, I’m under the impression that they have been discontinued, which is definitely not good news!

2. The KAI 7230 and 7250: The Ultimate Fabric Scissors

When it comes to fabric, I’ve learned that investing in quality scissors is non-negotiable. The KAI 7230 - 9" Professional Shear has become my go-to for most of my sewing projects. It’s part of the 7000 Series, made from high-carbon, hardened stainless steel, which gives it a sharp, durable edge.

I used to work with the KAI 7250, a 10" shear that also exists for left-handed people (which I am, though I never got used to left-handed scissors, so I use regular ones). Both cut equally well, but the 7230's handle is 1" shorter, making it lighter and a better fit for those with smaller hands—like me.

That said, I still keep the KAI 7250 around for fabrics that are particularly tough on scissors, like medium to heavy wools and sequins. This way, my 7230 stays sharper longer.

No matter how good your scissors are, they’re only as good as their sharpness. I make it a point to get mine regularly sharpened to keep them performing at their best, and I’ve finally found my favorite sharpening service in Lisbon: Afiação Cristofolini.

I’ve come across recommendations for micro-serrated blades, which are designed to grip fabric as you cut, reducing slippage. My KAI scissors are not micro-serrated. I was advised that micro-serrated blades can be more difficult to sharpen, which is something I prioritize, and so far, I’ve never felt the need for them.

3. The KAI 5135: My Essential Tool for Small and Detailed Work

For small and detailed work, the KAI 5135 scissors are my absolute go-to. These 5.5" scissors are crafted from the same high-carbon stainless steel as the larger shears. Their size makes them perfect for intricate cutting tasks, like trimming threads, grading seams, or making precise cuts while the garment is still under the machine.

I find them lightweight and super comfortable to use, and honestly, they never leave my side while I'm sewing.

4. Fabric Pinking Shears: An Occasional Necessity

Another tool I keep in my collection, though I don’t use them very often, is a pair of fabric pinking shears. To be honest, I don’t even remember where mine are from, but they’ve proven useful in certain situations. Pinking shears are great for finishing edges on fabrics that tend to fray, offering a quick solution when I want a clean finish without overlocking or serging. While they aren’t an everyday tool for me, they definitely have their moments of usefulness in the sewing room—especially when I’m sewing toiles.

Let’s Talk Scissors!

These are the four pairs of scissors I trust and rely on for various aspects of my sewing process. Each one serves a specific purpose in my toolbox, from rough cuts on paper to the most delicate fabric details. Keeping them sharp and well-maintained is key to their longevity and performance.

Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite scissors, and why do they make a difference in your sewing practice? Feel free to share your thoughts, recommendations, or even your own tools that you can’t live without in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going!