I’m not a scissor collector. No, really! I’m not.
At least, I don’t intend to be. But scissors are an important part of needlework, and good scissors – well, good scissors are just good.
So yes, I have a few pairs, and now and then, I like to write about them. They are my tried-and-true assistants. And they work hard for their moment in the spotlight.
Bohin, the needlework tool company in France that specializes in high quality needles for handwork, also makes scissors. They have a terrific line of delicate little embroidery scissors, but they also have two specific pairs of needlework scissors that, though somewhat hefty in comparison to their more delicate brethren, are marvelous tools.
This is one pair. They are Red Scissors… and I just love red. But I like these scissors not just because they’re red (though admittedly, that was the initial attraction!).
Bohin’s red needlework scissors are good quality, well-made, strong, durable scissors. And they are sharp. And they really cut, which is the most essential aspect of any pair of scissors.
Here they are, lined up next to a few pairs of needlework scissors. Above, you can see the little rainbow thread cutters by Sew Mate with the blue handles, then a pair of Bohin’s regular fine embroidery scissors, then Bohin’s red scissors, followed by the silver Italian-made Premax ring-lock scissors, and finally, a pair of Italian-made goldwork scissors.
Though Bohin’s red scissors are much larger than the others – note the blade is longer and wider – they cut really, really well, and though they look significantly large, they can get down close to regular needlework without a problem.
I like them very much. In the hand, they feel good. They have a good weight and smooth movement.
And did I mention they can really cut?
Besides using them for needlework, I use them to trim small pieces of fabric. Their size being much smaller than sewing sheers, but their blades being longer and wider than regular little embroidery scissors, they cut small bits of fabric – especially finicky little bits of felt and the like – really well.
This second pair of Bohin scissors – new on the market – is significantly larger than the needlework scissors. Note the handles – comfy, comfy handles.
They treat the hands very nicely, even when cutting things that are tough to cut.
You can see that they have one lightly serrated blade. Why? Because they’re used for cutting tougher metal threads. The serrated blade grips the metal thread and holds it in place. They’re especially nice when cutting heavy purls and pearl purls, plate, and stronger metallic threads.
Bohin’s scissor range is growing significantly. If you’re looking for quality scissors, you can find Bohin scissors in different fine needlework shops. These two are particularly imported by Access Commodities, so you can find them at any store that carries goods from Access Commodities.
An excellent source for good needlework scissors that fit different budget ranges, check out Anita’s Little Stitches. They carry scissor brands like Dovo, Premax (the candy cane ones are so cute – I could eat them!), Bohin, and Kai scissors from Japan. I use all these brands interchangeably and like them all.
Yes. It seems I have a growing affection for scissors. I often give scissors as gifts to needleworking friends. And I often receive scissors as gifts from family and friends. I like scissors. I like them a lot.
But I’m not a scissor collector.
No, really! I’m not!
What about you? Do you play favorites with scissors? Do you collect them? Are you scissor obsessed? (I’m fighting against it, but …) Do you have any particular scissors you would recommend? Scissor talk, anyone? Have your say below!
And just between you and me and all my scissors, I’m giving away a brand spanking new pair of scissors tomorrow. And just a hint: they’re Red! So stay tuned…