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How to choose your sewing scissors? Whether you are a beginner or experienced, choosing the right scissors is essential to succeed in your projects. A good tool allows you to cut cleanly, avoid damaging fabrics, and improve the precision of your work.
There are many types of scissors, each with a very specific use. Between sewing scissors, embroidery scissors, and thread snips, it is important to know which one to use depending on your need.
In this article, you will discover how to choose your sewing scissors, the different types available, and their uses for effective sewing.
What are the different types of scissors and their uses?
Each tool has a specific function in sewing. Knowing them well allows you to work more efficiently and precisely.
The sewing scissors

What are they used for?
The sewing scissors are the most used.
Use:
- cutting fabrics
- cutting patterns
Features: large blades, clean cut, suitable for thick fabrics
Tip: reserve them only for fabric.
Important: fabric scissors should be used exclusively for cutting fabric. Cutting paper or other materials dulls them quickly. Also remember to have them sharpened regularly to maintain a clean cut.
The dressmaker's scissors

What are they used for?
The dressmaker's scissors are lighter and more versatile.
Use:
- small tasks
- thin fabrics
- light sewing
Features: lightweight, manageable, precise
Tip: perfect for beginners.
Scissors for appliqués

What are they used for?
The appliqué scissors allow cutting close to the fabric.
Use:
- appliqués
- precise finishing
Features: special blade, high precision, prevents cutting the fabric underneath
Tip: ideal for detailed work.
Pinking shears

What are they used for?
The pinking shears cut in a zigzag.
Use:
- prevent fraying
- finishes
Features: serrated blades, decorative cutting
Tip: useful on fraying fabrics.
Embroidery scissors

What are they used for?
The embroidery scissors are small and very precise.
Use:
- cutting threads
- details
Features: small size, high precision, lightweight
Tip: essential for finishing.
The rotary cutter

What is it for?
The rotary cutter is an alternative to scissors.
Use:
- straight cutting
- patchwork
- multiple fabrics
Features: circular blade, fast cutting, precision
Tip: use with a cutting mat.
The thread cutter

What is it for?
The thread cutter allows quick cutting of threads.
Use:
- cutting threads
- quick finishing
Features: small size, fast, practical
Tip: always keep near the machine.
Tailor scissors

What are they used for?
Tailor scissors are high-end sewing scissors, used for thick fabrics or large cuts.
Use:
- thick fabrics
- large pieces
- professional cutting
Features: heavy, very sturdy, high precision
Tip: perfect for demanding sewers or heavy use.
All-purpose scissors

What are they used for?
All-purpose scissors are designed for materials other than fabric.
Use:
- paper
- plastic
- haberdashery items (elastics, ribbons, etc.)
Features: sturdy, versatile
Essential to avoid using your sewing scissors on anything other than fabric and thus extend their lifespan.
Table: types of scissors and uses
| Tool type | Usage |
|---|---|
| Sewing scissors | Fabric cutting |
| Tailor scissors | Thick fabrics |
| Lingerie scissors | Thin fabrics |
| Appliqué scissors | Precision |
| Pinking shears | Finishing |
| Embroidery scissors | Threads |
| Rotary cutter | Straight cutting |
| Thread snips | Quick cutting |
| All-purpose scissors | Haberdashery / paper |
What size scissors for sewing?
The choice of size depends on your use and comfort.
Recommended sizes:
- 20 to 25 cm → sewing scissors (main cutting)
- 15 to 20 cm → lingerie scissors (precise work)
- under 10 cm → embroidery scissors (finishing)
What criteria to choose your sewing scissors?
To choose your scissors well, several factors must be considered:
- blade quality (stainless steel recommended)
- grip (ergonomics)
- scissor weight
- intended use
- cutting precision
A good tool improves your comfort and precision, especially when cutting quality fabrics like those offered at Verotex.
Conclusion
Knowing how to choose your sewing scissors is essential for working efficiently and achieving clean finishes. Each type of scissors has a specific function, and using them well improves the quality of your projects.
By investing in suitable scissors and maintaining them properly, you will gain precision, comfort, and efficiency in all your sewing projects.
FAQ on how to choose your sewing scissors
Which scissors should you use to cut fabric?
Sewing scissors are the most suitable.
Can you use the same scissors for everything?
No, each tool has a specific use.
Why not cut paper with your sewing scissors?
It damages the blades and reduces their effectiveness.
What size scissors should you choose?
It depends on the use: large for fabric, small for finishing.







































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