How To Sharpen Scissors: A Complete Step-By-Step Guide
If your scissors no longer cut smoothly, don’t rush to replace them. Learning how to sharpen scissors at home is easy, cost-effective, and requires only simple tools. Whether you use scissors for sewing, crafts, hair cutting, or everyday tasks, keeping the blades sharp makes your work faster and more precise. This guide explains the best methods to sharpen scissors, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips for long-lasting sharpness.
What Causes Scissors to Get Dull?
The following causes scissors to lose their edge:
Regular usage
Cutting through hard materials
Absence of upkeep and cleaning
Misalignment of the blade
Knowing the reason makes it easier to select the best sharpening technique and avoid dullness in the future.
How to Sharpen Scissors: The Best Tested Techniques
The best and most user-friendly techniques are listed below.
1. Use sandpaper to sharpen scissors
One of the simplest methods for sharpening dull scissors is this.
Procedure:
A piece of sandpaper with 150–200-grit should be folded in half, grit side out.
Make many cuts into the sandpaper.
Use a cloth to clean the blades.
Check the sharpness and do it again if needed.
Why it functions: The edges are gradually filed back into sharpness by the abrasive grit.
2. Sharpen Scissors Using Aluminum Foil
This method is perfect for minor dullness.
Steps:
-
Fold a sheet of aluminum foil 5–7 times.
-
Cut through the folded foil in straight lines.
-
Clean the blade with a dry cloth.
Tip: The thicker the foil, the better the sharpening effect.
3. How To Sharpen Scissors With a Sharpening Stone
This gives professional-level results.
Steps:
-
Remove the screw and separate the blades.
-
Wet the sharpening stone with water or oil.
-
Lay the blade on the stone following its natural angle.
-
Slide the blade across the stone 10–20 times.
-
Repeat for the second blade.
-
Reassemble the scissors.
Best for: Hair-cutting scissors, kitchen shears, and high-quality craft scissors.
4. Use a glass jar or bottle to sharpen scissors
Perfect for rapid sharpening in the absence of tools.
Procedure:
Widen the scissors.
Put the blade around a glass bottle’s neck.
Repeatedly close the scissors with light pressure.
After testing the blades, clean them.
Note: This is a short-term solution that works best with regular household scissors.
5. Making Use of a Scissor Sharpener
Consistent results can be obtained with an electric or manual scissor sharpening.
Procedure:
Place the blades in the slot for sharpening.
As directed, pull through multiple times.
To get rid of residue, clean the blades.
Excellent for: Novices seeking a quick, reliable method.
How To Maintain Scissors After Sharpening
To keep your scissors sharp for longer:
-
Clean the blades after every use
-
Oil the pivot point occasionally
-
Avoid cutting wire, plastic, or other hard materials
-
Store scissors in a dry place
-
Tighten loose screws
Proper maintenance extends blade life and improves performance.
Typical Errors to Avoid When Sharpening Scissors
Sharpening at an incorrect angle
Using very coarse grit (which can harm blades)
Not cleaning up debris after sharpening
Overpressurizing sharpening stones
To keep your scissors in excellent shape, steer clear of these errors.
FAQs Regarding Sharpening Scissors
1. How frequently should my scissors be sharpened?
For regular usage, every three to six months; for professional use (tailors, hair stylists, craftsmen), once a month.
2. Is it possible to sharpen hair-cutting scissors at home?
Yes, but to prevent harming the blades, use a fine sharpening stone.
3. Does cutting foil really make scissors sharper?
Indeed, foil aids in edge refinement, but it works best for modest sharpening.
4. When cutting, should scissors create a sound?
Sharp scissors make little noise and cut easily.