Embroidery is making art. You don’t want to waste time and money on a bunch of useless tools then have no room for thinking creatively. That’s why right tools are essential for you to level up your embroidery skills and start making beautiful things.
Besides needles, hoops, and frames,…you definitely should have several good pairs of embroidery scissors.
For newbies, embroidery scissors are different from regular craft scissors. They are often smaller and slimmer. Especially they are extremely sharp and have pointy blades. That’s why they can trim something very closely without damage the fabric.
There are many types of embroidery scissors, depending on your budget and preferences. The choice of embroidery scissors does not distinguish whether you are a beginner or a professional.
Everyone can instantly use and feel for themselves. Thus, you must find the scissors that work best for you.
In the beginning, I will give you some general information about popular types of embroidery scissors in the market. From that, you could have more information to consider the most suitable one for your project.
Table of Contents
Types of Embroidery Scissors
My list will include seven types of embroidery scissors, together with some highlight features of each type.
Straight Tip Scissors
Usually, at first, embroiderers use scissors with straight tips. And they are also the most commonly used type of needlework scissors.
Slender and fine-pointed blades allow them to get close to the threads and make accurate movement. Straight tips scissors are great for trimming threads.
Curved Tip Scissors
When you need extra meticulousness at work, curved tip scissors will be necessary. For example, like getting under stitches or removing popped out threads. Curved blades probably find their way into the tightest and most obscure corners.
Appliqué Scissors
Appliqué is a type of embroidery in which the embroider sews different color and pattern fabric on top of another to create artistic visual effects.
Appliqué embroiderers are not able to live without the duckbill blades scissors because they are designed to cut around the fabric smoothly without harming the base fabric by pushing down on one layer while cutting the upper one.
Double Curved Scissors
Every sewer needs a pair of double curved scissors. They will help you with cutting threads inside the hoop. The design makes it easier to trim threads in tight places within the hoop.
Pinking Shears
Do you notice zigzag edge fabric in your sewing kit? They are made by using pinking shears. It stops the fabric from fraying.
Sharp & Blunt Point Scissors
Sharp point scissors with needle points are used to deal with threads that are difficult to trim because they are very close to the fabric or lies under stitches. And blunt point scissors are often used to cut fabric and other materials.
Offset Handle Scissors
Usually, the thumb handle is slightly shorter than the other one. This reduces the movement of the thumb when cutting. As a result, you can prevent harm on the wrist. Scissors with an offset handle bring you a better view of your cutting when in the hoop.
Do You Really Need the Best Embroidery Scissors?
Of course, you can use other types of scissors instead of embroidery scissors, but sooner or later you will want to own a good pair of scissors for the task you are doing.
Let’s say you want to make a handkerchief for your mom on her birthday and just because the scissors are too big, they ruined the product in the last minute. Not to mention instead of one week, you have to struggle for two weeks to complete because thread trimming is too time-consuming.
At that time, you will dream of having suitable embroidery scissors to support your project.
Small and Sharp One Is the Best
Cross stitch and embroidery are detailed work, and the best scissors are needed to be designed to focus on details. Regular embroidery scissors are about 3 to 4’’ long. The small size allows you to get close to your work and makes the scissors easier to control.
Identify the Style/Technique of Embroidery You Are Pursuing
Entering the world of needlework you will easily be overwhelmed by a lot of different styles and techniques. You often choose one thing to start with and gradually find out which one you like most. That will also involve how you select your embroidery scissors.
Which Are The Best Embroidery Scissors?
In this list, I highlight some best embroidery scissors and their particular characteristics. Let’s go through these products before choosing.
- Best Overall – Gingher 4” Embroidery Scissors
“Ideal for cutting fabric, thread and needlework yarn. Leather sheath is included to protect blades.” - Best Curved Tip Embroidery Scissors – Fiskars 10cm Embroidery Curved Scissors
“This small pair is ideal for intricate and detailed cutting.” - Best Straight Tip Embroidery Scissors – Dovo Embroidery Scissor, Stainless
“Dovo scissors are made in Germany and are very high quality. Great for cutting the thread from the finer areas of embroidery work.” - Best Budget – Westcott Titanium Embroidery Scissors
“Affordable scissors made from titanium – a high-performance metal that combines the lightness of aluminum with the strength of steel – that is what you will get from Westcott.” - Best Double-Curved Embroidery Scissors – Gingher 6 Inch Double-Curved Machine Embroidery Scissors
“Absolutely perfect for getting those little threads while your project is still in the hoop.” - Best for Beading Embroidery – Pafason Small and Sharp Embroidery Scissors
“They seem too small but delicate projects like embroidery beading requires a lot of intricate trimming as well.” - Best Knife-Edge Embroidery Scissors – Mundial 4-1/2-Inch Red Dot Embroidery Scissors, Knife Edge
“High quality scissors for needlework. Very sharp and smooth cut.” - Best Vintage Embroidery Scissors – Yueton Vintage European Style Embroidery Scissors
“Attractive and beautiful; sharp and functional. A vintage and useful decorative item.” - Best for Appliqué – Gingher 6 Inch Duckbill Appliqué Scissors
“No more worrying about unintentionally cutting the wrong layer when doing appliqué.”
Comparison Table
Before going into the reviews of each pair of embroidery scissors I have selected for this article, it’s interesting to notice the difference between them. Let’s explore together!
15 Best Embroidery Scissors
Here are the pros, cons, and my personal experience with each product. I hope to help you have more considerations before deciding to buy one or several pairs of embroidery scissors.
However, trial and error is an exciting process when you can touch and experience the product yourself. What if you guys made interesting and different statements from mine? Feel free to share your reviews.
Ok, let’s continue with some highlights about the top 15 embroidery scissors.
1. Gingher 4” Embroidery Scissors
(Best Overall)
Gingher is one of the most famous Italian brand names in making craft accessories. They are must-have tools for any sewers. For those who love embroidery, it is impossible to give up the temptation to try the famous Gingher classic 4 ’’ embroidery scissors.
Many people rated its look average but I found this pair of scissors quite nice, in such a simple and sophisticated style. It looks like you’re serious about embroidery if you choose it as your first pair of scissors. You might become a professional, not necessarily a hobby collector.
Gingher offers sharpening and repair service for all Gingher brand products. The sharpening and repair service normally take between 3 – 4 weeks. Items sent in for repair will be restored to functionally new condition.
Key Features
- Made of double-plated chrome over nickel
- Comes with an included leather sheath
Pros
- Extremely sharp and durable
- Cut smoothly and easily through fabric and thread
Cons
- Handle loop could be too small for comfortably using for long hours
- Hard to reshape
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 2.08 ounces |
| Dimension | 0.7 x 2.8 x 6.1 inches |
| Brand | Gingher |
| Type | Straight tip |
| Ideal for | Cutting fabric, thread and needlework yarn |
2. Fiskars 10cm Embroidery Curved Scissors
(Best Curved Tip Embroidery Scissors)
Fiskars is known for offering wide range of scissors and shears that help you cut and create in the kitchen, garden, studio and beyond. These scissors are versatile, too.
The product is designed to display the strength of firm handles and curved blades with a standard angle that is convenient for snipping, cutting and trimming.
If you’re lazy, there’s one more bonus: these scissors are dishwasher safe.
Key Features
- Great for delicate cutting needs
- With curved tips, it can easily access under a sewing machine foot or nail cutting
- The handle is designed for both right and left-hand users
Pros
- Stainless steel, high quality
- Pleasant grip and firm hold with plastic handle
Cons
- Does not work well with appliqué projects
- Get rusted quickly in the moist environment
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 7 ounces |
| Dimension | 4.1 x 2 x 0.3 inches |
| Brand | Fiskars |
| Type | Curved tip |
| Ideal for | Sewing and knitting work or cutting nails |
3. Dovo 3 ½’’ Embroidery Scissor
(Best Straight Tip Embroidery Scissors)
Dovo scissors are made in Germany and very high quality. Dovo has been the symbol of steel masterpieces of great craftsmanship.
The design of Dovo is simple but not boring. I still prefer quality over appearance.
The price is a bit high but it is worth it. This pair of scissors can maintain with you for a lifetime and support your projects diligently.
Key Features
- Small and fit for embroidery works
- High-quality stainless steel blades
Pros
- Straight tips for smooth cut, very precise and sharp to the point
- Well-balanced and comfortable when holding
Cons
- Standard finger holes
- Matte color
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 3.04 ounces |
| Dimension | 1 x 3.5 x 9.3 inches |
| Brand | Dovo |
| Type | Straight tip |
| Ideal for | Cutting and trimming threads |
4. Westcott 13865 Embroidery Scissors
(Best Budget)
The most notable feature of Westcott 13865 is that the blade is made of titanium – harder than stainless steel many times. This explains why sometimes handles get broke before blades go off.
I own 3 pairs at home and work. Perfect price for a pair of scissors made of titanium.
Key Features
- Titanium blades are durable, also rust and corrosion resistant
- Contoured soft grip handles make it easier to work with
Pros
- Less maintenance is required
- Work well with appliquéing
Cons
- Handles don’t last as much as the blade
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 0.8 ounces |
| Dimension | 6.5 x 0.2 x 3.4 inches |
| Brand | Westcott |
| Type | Curved tip |
| Ideal for | Detailed cutting of paper, cardboard, light line, fabric and other materials |
5. Gingher 6 Inch Double-Curved Machine Embroidery Scissors
(Best Double-Curved Embroidery Scissors)
If you often work with hoops, or you choose machine embroidery over hand embroidery then this is an excellent choice for you. Imagine how easily you can cut threads inside the hoop without struggling too much like before.
These ones make a clean and precise cut all the way to the tip of the scissors.
Not to mention full lifetime warranty from Gingher.
Key Features
- Double-curved design allows it to access to threads inside hoop easily
- Narrow curved blades allow for close cut
- Loops are comfortable which fits most people hands so that you can easily control when working with it
Pros
- Sharp blades
- Suitable for flat cut applique’ work
Cons
- Pricey
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Dimension | 1 x 3.5 x 9.3 inches |
| Brand | Gingher |
| Type | Double curved scissors |
| Ideal for | Access to threads inside embroidery hoops |
6. DMC 61253 Peacock Embroidery Scissor, 3 ¾ Inches
Every crafter needs a high-quality pair of scissors they can rely on—and this pair won’t fail you. You can use it for embroidery, needlepoint, crewel or sewing.
Use them for precise cuts on sewing pieces, as well as projects like scrapbooking and paper crafts.
Key Features
- Sharp, pointed stainless steel blades
- Gold-plated handles
Pros
- Needle nose tips
- 18k gold plated handles
- Beautiful, decorative accessory add to collection
Cons
- The tight of the blades seem to be getting looser through time
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 0.64 ounces |
| Dimension | 0.2 x 4 x 4.8 inches |
| Brand | DMC |
| Type | Straight tips |
| Ideal for | Embroidery, needlepoint, crewel or sewing |
7. Bihrtc Gold Vintage Plum Blossom and Classic Crane Scissors
Both scissors in the set are gorgeous. I prefer the crane because everyone seems to have one pair of animal–shaped design. My close sewing friend owns owl embroidery scissors and brings it everywhere with her.
Other decorative styles (cloud, flowers…) are available for you to choose from.
In general, the blades are straight and sharp, which can be used to trim leftover thread.
Key Features
- Animal–shaped design
- The tip is pointed – great for trimming and cutting threads close to the fabric
Pros
- Beautiful old looking design
- Photogenic
- Small size for carry-on everywhere
Cons
- Sometimes gets sticky
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 2.88 ounces |
| Dimension | 6.5 x 4.8 x 0.7 inches |
| Brand | BIHRTC |
| Type | Straight tips |
| Ideal for | Embroidery,needlework,crewel,sewing,crafting,cutting thread and paper items |
8. Yueton Vintage European Style Embroidery Scissors
(Best Vintage Embroidery Scissors)
A vintage-style and extremely photogenic scissors. If you are not only interested in embroidery but also want to display your products on Instagram, these scissors can become one of the essential props. They can bring around some retro European style vibe for your pictures.
They are not only suited for embroidery and other thread crafts, but also handle crochet and knitting yarn.
Because of its sharpness, you should cover it for protection.
Key Features
- The tip is straight and well-balanced for easy operation
- The finger holes are standard size
Pros
- Sharp all the way to the tip
- Photogenic
- Versatile
Cons
- No cover included
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 0.64 ounces |
| Dimension | 5.3 x 3.2 x 0.4 inches |
| Brand | Yueton |
| Type | Straight tips |
| Ideal for | Embroidery, crochet, knitting yarn, and other thread crafts |
9. Kai 5135 Black 5 1/2 inch Embroidery Scissors
The Kai 5135 embroidery scissors are perfect for any embroidery project.
They are ideal for someone who prefers keeping things plain and simple. In the other ways, prefer functionality over aesthetics.
Key Features
- Blades are made of strong and durable metal, which last long through time
- Small enough to carry around and too sharp for carrying around without sheath
Pros
- Simplistic design
- Plastic handle with durable metallic blade construction
- Very sharp for trimming and clipping threads
Cons
- Blades are quite thick
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Dimension | 3.3 x 0.3 x 7.1 inches |
| Brand | KAI |
| Type | Straight tips |
| Ideal for | All sewing and quilting projects |
10. Beaditive Sewing and Embroidery Scissors Set
The scissors set includes one with straight blades and one with curved tips. For your reference, the green has a curved tip and the pink one has straight edges. Therefore, you can experiment with your products.
This set is for those who are wondering whether straight or curved tips suit them best.
Key Features
- The grip is hand-friendly, rubberized
- Stainless steel blades
Pros
- Despite small size, they are ergonomically comfortable and can do lovely jobs for your sewing work
- Rubber handles for firm grip
Cons
- These are smaller then they appear
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Dimension | 4.5 x 2.0 x 0.2 inches |
| Brand | Beaditive |
| Type | 1 straight tip and 1 curved tip |
| Ideal for | Green scissors for needlework and pink scissors for details and DIY use |
11. Mazbot 6 Inch Bent Handle Curved Embroidery Scissors
If you are looking for a pair of shears that work on an angle, these are the best embroidery scissors to get.
Key Features
- Its curved blades plus the curved handle are ideal for reaching tight corners especially inside the embroidery hoop
- Strong and elegant construction, made of durable plated chrome over nickel, rust and corrosion
Pros
- Elegant looking
- Sharp and good quality
- Have tension adjustment that supports controlling the looseness and tightness of two blades
Cons
- Tips are not pointed enough
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 2.4 ounces |
| Dimension | 2 x 1 x 7 inches |
| Brand | Mazbot |
| Type | Curved tip |
| Ideal for | Cutting inside the hoops and tight places |
12. Pafason Small and Sharp Embroidery Scissors
(Best for Beading Embroidery)
Pafason – a Manufacturer to Customer brand designing, manufacturing, marketing and selling tools without relying on traditional intermediaries.
With the “factory to customers” business model, reducing number of intermediaries, Pafason can offer reasonable price and still maintain the quality of products.
Another set of scissors for your consideration. They are small and convenient, sharp and versatile. You have a great opportunity to experience both curved and straight blade to find the right types for you.
Moreover, if you intend to have more colorful things for your embroidery accessories collection you should buy them. They are also beautiful gift for sewing friends.
Key Features
- Set of two scissors – one with curved blades and one with straight blades
- Different colors available
Pros
- Work well with beading projects
- Safety covers included
Cons
- Finger holes are small
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 0.8 ounces |
| Dimension | 4.9 x 4 x 0.5 inches |
| Brand | Pafason |
| Type | 1 straight tip and 1 curved tip |
| Ideal for | Embroidery especially beading projects; Snip threads; Cutting silky materials |
13. Bamboomn Antique Style Embroidery Scissors
Many people have problems with the handle of the scissors. Luckily, these cute scissors can free you from the pain when using. You don’t have to struggle with cramps or hurtful fingers. Loops are large and comfortable when use.
And if you’re an antique collector then they are must have scissors. Decorative patterns on the handles are carved in Chinese style.
Bamboomn offers three years of unconditional warranty, simply save the receipt and you can return the product if you need.
Key Features
- Antique-style design
- Loops are large and comfortable
Pros
- Straight and sharp blades
Cons
- 6 inches long – not convenient to carry around
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Dimension | 5.9 x 3.5 x 0.3 inches |
| Brand | BamboomN |
| Type | Straight tip |
| Ideal for | Undo seams and make delicate cuts |
14. Mundial 4-1/2-Inch Red Dot Embroidery Scissors, Knife-Edge
(Best Knife-Edge Embroidery Scissors)
Precise cutting, long-lasting sharpness and exceptional comfort – That’s what Mundial aim for. Mundial 4-1/2 inch red dot embroidery scissors are one of pair of scissors from the trusted serie “Red Dot” of Mundial. They all got an adjustable pivot assembly.
If you are looking for traditional style shears, these are yours.
Key Features
- The Mundial knife-edge blades are super sharp and precise
- They are well-made, high quality and plus, small enough for you to comfortably carry around
- They are durable if you use them only for lightweight cutting
Pros
- Knife-edge for sharpness
- Stainless steel blades for strength
- Polypropylene handles for non-slip grip
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Old design style
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 0.8 ounces |
| Dimension | 2.8 x 0.3 x 6.6 inches |
| Brand | Mundial |
| Type | Straight tip |
| Ideal for | Lightweight cutting and embroidery |
15. Gingher 6 Inch Duckbill Appliqué Scissors
(Best for Appliqué)
Another must-have pair from Gingher for your needlework projects. I believe if appliqué embroidery is your specialty, this Gingher 6 Inch Duckbill Appliqué scissors are your best choice.
Strong structure gives the impression that they will last long.
These scissors feature duckbill (or paddle shaped) blade so that you can easily avoid cutting the underneath fabric why trimming upper layer. Offset handles provide better view for users to get in the corners without having to cramp hands.
Key Features
- Durable double plated chrome over nickel
- Paddle-shaped blade allows close cuting without harming the base fabric
Pros
- For both right and left handle users
Cons
- You could feel a little bit heavy when you first use it
Product Specifications
| Shipping Weight | 3.84 ounces |
| Dimension | 1 x 3.5 x 9.3 inches |
| Brand | Gingher |
| Type | Appliqué Scissors |
| Ideal for | Appliqué and quilt work |
Buying Guide
The philosophy “choose well, buy slow” is quite suitable when shopping for a pair of embroidery scissors. Instead of rushing into a decision I usually spend time thinking about what I really want and need.
I might ask myself several questions to clear my head. Moreover, I recommend you to practise the same thing before ordering any pair of scissors. Sound serious? It’s an effective way to save your money and time.
When it comes to good scissors, price is not a useful indicator for you.
Are You Into Hand Embroidery or Machine Embroidery?
Hand embroiderers prefer using scissors with straight tips. And if you love machine embroidery, you’ll need curved tips to be able to access to thread under sewing machine’s foot.
All in all, I think you should buy both because you will always need more than a pair of scissors.
What Do You Want the Blades to Look Like?
Thin or thick? Long or short? How thin is enough for your project? Embroidery scissors are often from 4 to 6 inches long. Small design allows them to reach to the tight places easily.
Pointed Tips?
How pointed the tip do you want? Like needlepoint tip or tip is just fine enough to trim threads? If they are too sharp, you need leather or silicone to cover them for protection.
Are Your Hands Small or Big? Left-Handed?
You need a pair that has finger holes large enough for you to feel comfortable when working hard at your art piece. You don’t want to hurt your hands or get cramps every time you work, believe me. Therefore, consider carefully and read reviews about handles before deciding.
Sharpness
Sharpness is an essential factor of the best embroidery scissors. They must do their jobs well from the beginning.
Buy From Trusted Brands
While many scissors in the market are marked top quality, this is not always the case. Take time to read through reviews to identify the models that have top ratings. Not to mention the customer care service of big companies is often better than that of small vendors.
FAQs
My Top Pick
We have just spent some time learning about embroidery scissors. Above is what I study and experience. Hope it will be helpful for you to find your own embroidery scissors and create many interesting and meaningful projects for yourself and those around you.
And my choice is Gingher 4” embroidery scissors for its versatility and durability.
In brief, I suggest you should first try some simple little works using basic models. Once you develop your sense and view about scissors, you can find specific ones for you more easily.
