Choosing the right sewing scissors is one of the most important decisions a home sewer can make. High-quality scissors improve accuracy, reduce hand fatigue, and make your sewing so much more enjoyable. Different fabric types require different blades, weights, and features, so understanding what to look for will ensure clean, precise cuts every time.
Why fabric type matters
Fabric behaves differently depending on its weight, weave, and fibre content. Lightweight silks can shift and fray, while heavy wool or denim demands strength and control. Using the wrong sewing scissors can result in jagged edges, stretched fabric, or unnecessary strain on your hands.
Sewing scissors for lightweight fabrics
Lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon, voile, and fine cotton (like Liberty Tana Lawn) require exceptionally sharp blades.
Look for:
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A fine knife-edge blade for clean cuts
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Smooth, sharp steel that glides without dragging
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Smaller or lighter scissors for greater control
Embroidery scissors or sharp tailoring shears with excellent blade alignment are ideal for these fabrics. A precise cut helps prevent fraying and distortion, especially when working with delicate garments or hand-sewn details.
Sewing scissors for medium-weight fabrics
Medium-weight fabrics include linen, quilting cotton, twill, and rayon. These are the most common fabrics used by home sewers and require versatile, all-purpose tailoring shears.
Look for:
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An 8-inch blade length for long, smooth cuts
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Balanced weight for comfort and accuracy
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One knife-edge blade for clean slicing
High-quality tailoring shears are designed to handle repeated cutting without losing sharpness, making them a reliable choice for everyday sewing.
Sewing scissors for heavy fabrics
Denim, wool, canvas, upholstery fabric, and coating require strong, well-balanced scissors that can handle resistance without crushing the fabric.
Look for:
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Heavier scissors made from carbon steel
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Micro-serrated blades to prevent fabric slipping
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Offset handles to keep fabric flat on the cutting surface
Heavy-duty tailoring shears provide the control needed for thick layers and ensure consistent results, even on demanding projects.
Dedicated scissors for threads and finishing
Using fabric scissors to cut thread will dull the blades over time. Thread snips or small embroidery scissors should always be kept separate.
These are best for:
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Snipping threads at the sewing machine
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Hand embroidery and applique
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Fine finishing work
Keeping dedicated scissors for each task helps maintain blade sharpness and extends the life of your tools.
Invest once, sew for years
Well-made sewing scissors are an investment, not a consumable. High-quality scissors, when properly cared for, can last a lifetime. Look for scissors made by specialist manufacturers, crafted from durable materials, and packaged to protect them between uses.
At SOHMO, our Italian-made sewing scissors are designed with longevity, comfort, and precision in mind. Whether you are cutting silk, linen, or heavy wool, the right pair of scissors transforms the sewing experience and makes every project a pleasure to work on.
Choosing the right sewing scissors for your fabric types is a small decision that makes a remarkable difference, one careful cut at a time.