TRY TECHNIQUES | CUTTING

Cutting Tools

So Many to Choose

Find a style of scissors and rotary cutters that suit you and fit your hand. Be especially picky if you’re left-handed or you have ergonomic needs. Ask an employee at the local quilt store to demonstrate the qualities of their favorite cutting tools.

Scissors
Quilting requires a good pair of scissors. Most quilters use several pairs, each designed for a different purpose. Choose your cutting tools with care, making certain they are of the highest quality you can afford. It’s better to have two or three sharp pairs of scissors than a drawer full of seldom-used, dull pairs.

Choose your scissors and shears from the following. In the photo, thread clippers are on top; scissors from left to right are: spring-action scissors, three pairs of knife-edge bent shears, appliqué scissors, embroidery scissors, knife-edge straight trimmers, and craft scissors.

Thread clippers: Use for cutting threads. Single style used by both left- and right-handed quilters.

Craft scissors and knife-edge straight trimmers: Use for cutting threads and trimming fabric edges. Left- and right-handed styles available.

Embroidery scissors: Use for thread cutting. Left- and right-handed styles available.

Appliqué scissors: Use for close trimming; special duckbill protects underneath layers of fabric. Left- and right-handed styles available.

Knife-edge bent trimmers or shears: Use for general cutting and sewing. Bent handle and flat edge provide accuracy when cutting on a flat surface. Left- and right-handed styles available.

Spring-action scissors: Small and large sizes available. Ideal for use by persons with weakened hands or for lengthy cutting sessions. Single style used by both left- and right-handed quilters.

Continued on Page 2: Rotary Cutters

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