Debunking Myths: Cutting Paper with Fabric Scissors Explained

When it comes to sewing, the tools you use can make a significant difference in your craft’s quality and efficiency.

One of the most debated topics among sewing enthusiasts is the use of fabric scissors and whether they should ever touch paper.

In a recent blog post on LiveJournal, a user shared their insights and experiences with fabric scissors, shedding light on some common misconceptions and practical tips.

Let’s delve into this topic and explore the nuances of fabric scissors, their maintenance, and best practices for their use.

The Fabric Scissors Dilemma: To Cut or Not to Cut Paper?

For many seasoned sewers, the idea of using fabric scissors to cut paper is almost sacrilegious. The prevailing belief is that paper dulls the blades, rendering them ineffective for fabric cutting.

However, Peggy Sagers, host of *Fit2Stitch*, challenges this notion.

She argues that if fabric scissors can handle cutting through various fibers such as silk, wool, linen, cotton, and rayon, which are all cellulose fibers like paper, then they should be able to cut through paper without significant damage.

Understanding Fiber Types and Their Impact on Scissors

To grasp this concept, it’s essential to understand the different types of fibers and their properties:

• Protein Fibers: These include silk and wool, which are natural fibers derived from animals.
• Cellulose Fibers: These include linen, cotton, and rayon, which are plant-based fibers.
• Paper: Also a cellulose fiber, making it similar in composition to linen, cotton, and rayon.

Given these similarities, the argument is that cutting paper should not be more detrimental to fabric scissors than cutting other cellulose fibers.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Fabric Scissors

Despite the logical argument presented by Peggy Sagers, many sewers, including the LiveJournal user, remain cautious about using their prized fabric scissors on paper.

Here are some practical tips to help maintain your fabric scissors:

Sharpening and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your fabric scissors in top condition.

The LiveJournal user shared an experience where their fabric scissors came back duller after being sharpened professionally. This highlights the importance of choosing a reputable service for sharpening.

Additionally, you can:

• Use a scissor sharpener designed for fabric scissors.
• Avoid cutting materials that can damage the blades, such as pins or zippers.

Alternative Cutting Methods

To preserve the longevity of your fabric scissors, consider these alternative cutting methods:

• Tracing and Cutting: Instead of cutting paper patterns directly, press them flat, trace them onto plain, white gift-wrap tissue paper, and cut out the traced pieces with inexpensive scissors from a dollar store.
• Dedicated Paper Scissors: Invest in a separate pair of scissors specifically for cutting paper patterns. This ensures your fabric scissors remain sharp for fabric cutting.

Choosing the Right Scissors for the Job

Not all scissors are created equal, and selecting the right pair for your sewing projects can make a world of difference.

The LiveJournal user discovered that dollar store scissors worked surprisingly well for cutting cotton fabric. While these may not be suitable for all types of cotton fabrics, they serve adequately for many sewing tasks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Scissors

When selecting scissors for your sewing projects, consider the following factors:

• Blade Material: High-quality stainless steel or carbon steel blades are durable and maintain their sharpness longer.
• Handle Comfort: Ergonomically designed handles reduce hand fatigue during extended cutting sessions.
• Blade Length: Longer blades are ideal for cutting fabric, while shorter blades offer better control for intricate cuts.

Testing and Replacing Scissors

It’s essential to test your scissors on different fabrics to determine their suitability.

If a pair of scissors no longer meets your needs, replacing them doesn’t have to be costly.

Inexpensive scissors can be a viable option for less demanding tasks, while investing in high-quality fabric scissors is worthwhile for more intricate work.

Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Practicality

The debate over using fabric scissors to cut paper is a testament to the passion and dedication of the sewing community.

While traditional wisdom advises against it, practical considerations and logical arguments suggest that occasional paper cutting may not be as harmful as once thought.

By understanding the properties of different fibers, maintaining your scissors properly, and choosing the right tools for the job, you can strike a balance between tradition and practicality in your sewing endeavors.

For more insights and personal experiences on this topic, you can read the original blog post on LiveJournal by following this link.