Every dedicated sewist needs a fantastic pair of fabric scissors! Explore this selection of the best sewing scissors capable of effortlessly cutting through layers of fabric.
Accurate cutting is a key element of any successful sewing project, so if serious about your sewing hobby, investing in a durable pair that will serve you for years is a must. Any of the scissors featured on this list offers excellent value for your money.
Fabric scissors/shears have been designed to suit specific requirements, as the dressmakers and sewists all need tools that are sharp, precise, and comfortable to hold.
It’s amazing how the right tool makes a job easy and enjoyable!
A good pair of sewing shears cut cleanly and effortlessly and should be only used for fabric exclusively.
Important questions for choosing your fabric scissors
- Are you right or left-handed? Most scissors are made for right-handed people. If you’re left-handed, you should choose left-handed scissors, as they’re more comfortable and easier to use.
- Large hands or small hands? You’ll need scissors to fit your hand size. For this purpose, the length of the blade is not as important as the size of the finger and thumb holes.
- Weight. You have to know the sewing shears usually weigh more than regular multipurpose scissors. Their weight is a critical factor in how well you’ll like your scissors. If you have diminished strength, arthritis, or another wrist/hand issue chances are you’ll struggle with heavy-weight scissors.
- Price and warranty length. The more expensive scissors have a lifetime guarantee and will perform better than any cheap pair you buy. While the more affordable scissors might seem a good idea and a money-saving move at first, they will not last as long and will probably be more expensive in the long run. They will dull more quickly or become unbalanced, and the plastic handles can snap off if they are widely used and often abused. Most affordable scissors just aren’t built for the long haul. This list includes the very best scissors for cutting fabric, but also a few of the best budget-friendly alternatives. Don’t forget to verify the warranty term of your desired scissors to find out what to expect.
Related: The best sewing machines for beginners
The Best Scissors for Sewing
All of these scissors are a joy to work with, feel great in the hand, and cut through any fabric, smoothly and precisely. Exactly the type that we would recommend to a friend.
Here are the best cutting tools to consider for your sewing room.
Best overall – Gingher 8″ Knife Edge Dressmaker’s Shears
Many sewists say these are THE best fabric scissors. Gingher scissors have a history of being the best for sharp, precision cutting.
The knife-edge cuts easily through multiple layers of fabric and leaves the straightest, sharpest edge behind.
These fabric scissors are great, just the type you’ll want to store in a locked box so nobody else will use them for other projects.
Just beware that these weigh more than most other scissors, so they’ll feel nice and heavy in your hands.
Highly-reviewed – Fiskars 8″ The Original Orange Handled Scissors
The Fiskars orange handled scissors have their reputation for a reason! These are classic scissors that are still around after decades because they actually work as promised. Good quality and great price.
Ideal for cutting a wide variety of materials including denim, silk and multiple layers of fabric. The handle is sculpted to fit your hand, maximizing control and comfort.
Most comfortable – Singer 8.5″ ProSeries Heavy Duty Bent Sewing Scissors
Heavy-duty and super sharp scissors, but lightweight!
The Singer 8.5-inch bent scissors are another great affordable option for sewing shears.
Not only are these sharp scissors great at cutting fabric, but they are also super comfortable to hold due to the rubberized comfort grip handle.
Best Budget Heavy Duty – Professional 9″ Tailor Scissors
These fabric scissors made of high carbon steel are a great addition to your sewing supplies.
You don’t have to worry about hand fatigue when using these scissors for extended periods.
Comfortable to use thanks to the ergonomic design, this pair cuts fabric swiftly and with little effort.
Do you have a favorite pair of sewing scissors? Please leave a comment below and let us know.
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I just keft his comment which was rejected because it says I already posted similar comment. I just discovered your site last week so that is not possible. Anyway here it is…..I’ve always used Fiskars because they’re good, inexpensive and because of their lifetime warranty I have about 12 pairs of different styles including pinking shears. I wish someone made a shorter pair of detailed pinking shears to get into small places easier. Thanks for your helpful site.
Hi Virginnia,
So sorry for the late reply! I forgot to log in and check the comment section, life has been hectic lately with our first international move. Thank you so much for you comment! I wish you all the best!
I’ve always used Fiskars because they’re good, inexpensive and because of their lifetime warranty I have about 12 pairs of different styles including pinking shears. I wish someone made a shorter pair of detailed pinking shears to get into small places easier. Thanks for your helpful site.