In this blog we will discuss the number one topic we are asked about the most. How can I sharpen my scissors? Does aluminum foil sharpen scissors? Do glass bottles sharpen scissors? Can scissors be sharpened using sandpaper? In this blog post we will go over everything sharpening, the DOs and DON'Ts. Also, the best ways to keep your scissors properly stored, oiled, and protected.

First off, there are many short-term home remedies out there that MIGHT help your scissors for a moment but are not great long-term solutions. This is where you might see videos of people showing you how to use aluminum foil, glass bottles, sandpaper, or even a knife sharpening stones to sharpen your scissors. All these techniques are more likely than not to cause more problems than fix, and we would not recommend using them on your scissors.

When sharpening a pair of scissors, we check for more than just blade functionality. We feel for the tension and setting of the blades. The setting and tension can cause the blades to be too tight or too loose. We look for nicks in the blades so we know how long the blades will need to be on the grinding wheel. We oil the screw and back of the scissors to remove debris that has collected over time. Sharpening is a full service depending on the age and type of scissors.

The sharpening systems we use have been tested and developed for decades by a top scissors manufacturer. Everything from the grit of the grinding stone and honing wheel has been meticulously tested. We have also taken the time to continually train ourselves in proper scissor sharpening and care.

Proper Care and Storage

There are ways to keep your scissors away from our grinding wheels. One of the most important is ensuring your scissors are never dropped onto hard surfaces. Dropping a scissor on concrete or tile can cause setting issues, blade damage and more. Keep in mind scissors are made to cut a variety of mediums but are never meant to work cross crafts. Using scissors for paper is ok if that is their only intended use, same for fabric, leather, or foam. Switching between mediums can cause your scissors to get damaged or dull much faster than intended.

Storage of your precision tools is also important. Placing your thin snips with your 8-inch fabric shears in a box is not always recommended. Some tools are delicate and better kept in a separate sheath or package to prevent damage from other heavier tools.

Using machine oil, 3-1 or any kind of penetrating oil to lubricate your scissors is a must. All instruments where there is metal on metal friction will always need lubrication. This is true for crafting, and it helps remove debris from the screw. Debris caught in the screw will eventually cause the scissors to loosen, rust or develop nicks in the blades. In especially humid climates it is important to keep your scissors lubricated. You might be asking yourself, “Won’t this get oil on my fabric?” Do this after using your tools and wipe away any excess. The next time you go to use your tool give it another wipe down and you should have no problems.