Craft scissors are scissors which have been developed for use in arts and crafts. There are several different styles of craft scissors, ranging from pinking shears, which create a wavy edge in cut objects, to children's craft scissors, with blunt blades which are designed to reduce injury. Many craft stores sell an assortment of craft scissors, and it is also possible to order them through specialty suppliers. Having a pair of utility craft scissors around the house can be extremely useful, as these scissors tend to be very versatile.
One common type of craft scissors is fabric scissors, which have a flattened loop with one blunt pointed blade and one sharp-pointed blade. The flattened loop facilitates cutting large swatches of fabric on a flat surface, while the differing blades are designed to make it easy to cut fabric without snagging, with the dull blade running under the fabric while the sharp blade snips down from above.
Craft scissors for children classically have sheathes over their blades, along with blunted tips and relatively dull blades so that the children cannot hurt themselves. It is also possible to find large craft shears for big cutting projects, and small craft scissors which are designed for detail work. Sewing and embroidery scissors, for example, are often small with very small blades so that precise snipping can be done without worrying about accidentally cutting the fabric. There are also some very esoteric types of craft scissors, like scissors for knitters which are designed to be safe for use on airplanes, with a small sheathed blade which usually passes muster at airport security.
Craft stores often have several types of scissors on offer, and staff can make recommendations to customers who are not sure about which kind of craft scissors to get. Many will also allow customers to test out scissors before purchase so that they can see how the scissors feel.
A pair of craft scissors can be used for cutting fabric, paper, and a variety of other materials. Most craft scissors will require periodic sharpening, which can be done at home with a whetstone, or by a professional. When selecting craft scissors, it is a good idea to find scissors with blades which can be successfully resharpened if necessary, as this will prolong the life of the scissors. People should also take care to purchase scissors which are engineered for their dominant hands, or to buy ambidextrous scissors which can be used by right and left handed individuals.
