7 Hairdressing Scissors and scissor sets for beginners to professional hairdressers
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Hairdressing scissors are essential in your hair cutting toolkit, coming in various shapes and sizes to suit different cutting techniques. Typically ranging in size from about 5 to 7 inches, these scissors are crafted with specific blade designs intended for snipping through hair with precision. The stainless steel used in manufacturing these scissors is usually of high quality, ensuring sharpness and durability for regular use.
When choosing a pair of hair scissors, it’s common to find ones that feature a finger brace or ‘tang’. This extra feature can provide you with greater control, which is essential for achieving accurate cuts and avoiding fatigue during extended cutting sessions. The design of these scissors is also ergonomically tailored to fit comfortably in your hand, which is crucial for hair cutting tasks that require repetition.
It’s important to understand that the choice of hairdressing scissors can greatly impact the quality of your work. Professional hair stylists typically prefer scissors from reputable brands to ensure they get tools that deliver precise cuts and can withstand daily use. Whether you’re an experienced stylist or a beginner, investing in the right pair of scissors can make a significant difference in improving your hairdressing skills.
7 Hairdressing Scissors and scissor sets
Understanding Hairdressing Scissors
Hairdressing scissors or hair-cutting shears are specialised tools for professional hairstylists. These precision instruments are designed specifically for cutting hair, offering a sharpness and durability that standard scissors cannot match. The most common materials used in crafting these scissors are Japanese steel and stainless steel, prized for their strength and ability to maintain a sharp edge for smooth, clean cuts.
When choosing hair scissors, consider the handle, the blade, and the size. Typically, scissors range in size from about 11.45 cm to 17.8 cm. The right size for you depends on the size of your hand and personal comfort. Place the scissors in your palm with the finger hole touching the base of your thumb, and the tip should reach the last section of your middle finger for an ideal fit.
Understanding the two main blade types is vital: bevelled edge, usually featuring micro serrations that prevent the hair from slipping, and convex blades, which are exceptionally sharp and ideal for slice cutting due to their smooth edge. Convex blades, often made from high-quality Japanese steel, provide a smoother cut and are common in high-end hairdressing scissors.
It’s also crucial to recognise the significance of tension in the scissors. Correct tension ensures that the blades glide smoothly without too much resistance or force, which can negatively impact the haircut’s precision and can cause strain to your hand. Regular maintenance, like cleaning and sharpening, will keep your scissors in prime condition, ensuring they cut effectively and last longer.
Types of Hairdressing Scissors
In the craft of hairdressing, scissors are not just tools; they’re an extension of your hand. Each scissor type serves a distinct purpose and is designed to deliver specific results on various hair types. The following are the essential scissors you’ll encounter in a professional hairdressing kit.
Thinning Scissors
Thinning scissors are characterised by one blade with a normal straight edge and another with teeth. They remove bulk, blend layers, or create texture in a hairstyle without altering the overall style. Your approach to thinning will differ depending on the density and texture of the client’s hair. For subtle thinning, scissors with more teeth produce less noticeable results, whereas fewer teeth may provide heavier texturisation.
Left Handed Scissors
If you’re left handed, left-handed scissors are crucial for precision and comfort. They are designed with the opposite blade orientation, allowing you to maintain a natural hand position while cutting. This reduces strain on your hand and wrist and prevents blocking your line of sight. It’s not just a mirrored version of the right-handed design; the ergonomics involved make a significant difference for left-handed professionals.
Barber Scissors
Barber scissors, or barber shears, typically have a more pronounced, angled handle. This ensures better ergonomics when performing cuts such as the scissor-over-comb technique, which is frequently used in men’s hairdressing. They come in various sizes but generally have longer blades, allowing more efficient cutting over larger sections. Barber scissors are perfect for precision work and are fundamental in creating clean, sharp lines.
Selecting the Right Hair Scissors
Choosing the right hairdressing scissors is crucial for professional performance and personal grooming needs. The type, size, and quality of the scissors can significantly impact the cutting experience and the final hairstyle.
For Professionals – Professional hairdressing scissors
Investing in high-quality professional hairdressing scissors is crucial for any professional stylist or salon owner. It is important that your scissors can withstand frequent use while providing precise cuts and reducing fatigue during long sessions. Look for scissors that offer advanced features to further reduce strain and enhance control. Even though they may be costly, these scissors offer superior performance and longevity, making them a worthwhile investment for serious professionals dedicated to their craft.
For Personal Use
When it comes to personal grooming, it’s important to prioritize safety and simplicity, while still maintaining the quality of your haircuts. A great option for at-home haircuts is a pair of six-inch safety scissors, which can help you achieve clean cuts with minimal risk of nicks or cuts. While personal grooming scissors come in a wide range of prices, you can still find decent quality scissors even on a budget that will work just fine for occasional trims.
By Price Range
When selecting hairdressing scissors, price is often a reflection of quality, material, and intended use. Understanding these price brackets can help you choose scissors that align with your skill level and hairdressing needs.
Budget-Friendly Options (£9 – £100)
At the budget end, prices can start as low as £9 for single pairs and around £13 for scissor sets. Scissors in the £20 – £100 range are typically suited for infrequent use or beginners. Made with basic materials, these scissors are sufficient for learning, minor home usage, and occasional styling. While they may not offer the advanced features of higher-priced models, they are a cost-effective way to start your hairdressing journey.
Mid-Range Choices (£100 – £250)
Moving to the £100 – £250 bracket, you’ll find scissors more suitable for budding professionals or enthusiasts. These scissors offer improved performance and comfort. Ideal for those stepping up from basic models, these scissors provide a taste of professional features without the hefty price tag.
Advanced Options for Experienced Stylists (£250 – £400)
Scissors priced between £250 and £400 cater to experienced stylists who demand precision and ergonomic benefits. These scissors are designed to reduce fatigue during repetitive use, making them ideal for busy salon environments. Their construction typically involves higher-quality materials and more refined engineering, providing a superior cutting experience.
No matter your budget or skill level, there’s a pair of hairdressing scissors that’s just right for you. From affordable options for beginners to luxurious choices for seasoned professionals, understanding these price ranges can guide you in matching your scissors with both your skill level and the demands of the hairstyles you wish to create.
Maintaining Your Scissors
Properly maintaining your hairdressing scissors is critical for ensuring they perform to the best of their ability. This section will guide you through the best cleaning and storage practices and the necessary steps for sharpening your scissors.
To keep your scissors pristine, you should regularly clean them with a soft, dry cloth after each use. Any residue, such as hair or product build-up, can cause the blades to dull more quickly or become sticky. If your scissors have a micro-serrated blade, don’t damage the serrations during cleaning. It is also important to store your scissors properly when not in use. A scissor pouch can protect the blades from damage and contamination. Choose a pouch that provides individual slots for each pair to prevent them from knocking against each other, which can cause dullness or misalignment. Scissors with an offset design, which offers a more ergonomic grip, should always be stored open to prevent unnecessary tension on the pivot area.
Sharpening your hairdressing scissors ensures that the razor edges are restored to their original sharpness, enabling precise cuts. It’s essential to have your scissors sharpened by a professional who has experience with tempered and forged scissors to maintain their quality and functionality. Attempting to sharpen them yourself without the proper tools or knowledge can lead to uneven edges or damage to the blades. It is recommended to have them sharpened every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use them. Remember, the sharper the blade, the cleaner the cut, and the less strain on your hands and wrists.