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How to Use Scissors Sharpener

how to use scissor sharpener
Scissors are a staple household tool. Whether it is for kitchen use or arts and crafts, you will find those sharp metal blades extremely handy for cutting various items. But when those blades wear out and get dull, you do not throw your scissors away just yet, do you?

This is when the scissors sharpener comes in. While many still swear by sharpening stones or sandpaper, others find scissors sharpeners a nifty and convenient tool to keep those metal blades perfectly edged.

Ever tried using it? Fret not! You would probably be surprised how easy it is to use this tool! Keep reading and I will show you how to use a scissors sharpener.

How to Use Scissors Sharpener

Although scissor sharpeners may come in different designs, the usual structure features two ergonomic slots where each metal blade should fit.

Things You Will Need:

  • A scissors sharpener
  • A clean cloth
  • Scissors to be sharpened

Step-by-step Instructions:

  1. Find a flat and sturdy surface. Place the sharpener and hold it down on the table firmly. Scissors sharpeners feature an ergonomic design, where you can hold them safely as you do the sharpening.
  2. The sharpener has two slots for each metal blade of your scissors. Open the scissors and insert them into the slots carefully.
  3. Hold the scissors and pull them towards you. Move it as if you are cutting something. Do this gently and carefully. Do this about 4 to 5 times.
  4. If there is any dust or dirt, simply tidy them off with a clean cloth.
  5. Try cutting a piece of paper to test your scissors.
  6. You can use this sharpener for all scissors brands and sizes.

Other Methods to Sharpen Scissors Effectively

are scissors sharpeners worth it

Should scissors sharpeners not be available, there are other methods to restore the sharpness of your scissors. As you read on, you will find quick and easy tips for sharpening scissors, all of which have been tried and tested by many and proven to be effective.

Tip #1: Use a Sharpening Stone

Also referred to as bench stone or whetstone, a sharpening stone is a simple and the most traditional way of sharpening scissors and knives as well.

This step is one of the effective ways to sharpen damaged and very dull scissors.

Things You Will Need:

  • A sharpening stone
  • Very dull or damaged scissors
  • A clean cloth
  • Plain water or vegetable oil (or any honing oil)

Step-by-step Instructions:

  1. When using a sharpening stone, take note of the fine surface and coarse surface. Begin with the coarse side, which is usually a 400-grit surface.
  2. Wet the stone with plain water or vegetable oil.
  3. Hold the stone. Make sure that your hand is on the secure side to prevent any cuts. Open the scissors and lay the inside blade on the stone.
  4. Use your right thumb to hold the blade. Right from the base tip (the nearest edge from you), apply light pressure and push the blade downward. Do this gently and carefully.
  5. Depending on the dullness of your blade, move the blade from the base tip to the other edge repeatedly. You can do this 10 to 20 times.
  6. Flip the stone and go for the finer side. Draw the blade across the stone again 10 to 20 times. This is to finish the sharpening process.
  7. Repeat the entire process for the other blade.

Tip #2: Cut Through the Sandpaper

When your scissors are not damaged but seem dull and not cutting properly, you can use sandpaper and cut through it. The coarseness of sandpaper helps sharpen your scissors, honing the blades to keep them sharp and functional again.

Things You Will Need:

  • 150-grit sandpaper
  • Dull scissors
  • A clean cloth or towel

Step-by-step Instructions:

  1. Fold the sandpaper in half, leaving the rough or abrasive sides facing out.
  2. Once folded, cut through the sandpaper carefully and slowly. Make sure you cut the paper with full strokes, exposing the edges of the blades to the abrasive surface of the sandpaper. This is to hone the scissors blades thoroughly.
  3. Remove any dust or dirt remnants from the blades with a clean cloth or towel.
  4. Cut through scrap paper to test the scissors. If the blades need more sharpening, repeat the process.

Tip #3: Try Aluminum Foil

The steps for sharpening the scissors with aluminum foil are almost similar to cutting with sandpaper. But of course, you have to replace sandpaper with aluminum foil this time. Take note that this tip is suitable only for slightly dull scissors and not for damaged and super dull scissors.

Things You Will Need:

  • Aluminum foil sheet
  • Slightly dull scissors
  • A clean cloth or towel

Step-by-step Instructions:

  1. Take about 12-inch long aluminum foil.
  2. Fold the aluminum foil sheet a couple of times until it is six to seven layers thick.
  3. Once done, cut through the folded aluminum foil sheet with full-stroke cuts. Again, this is to expose the blade edges to the material for optimum sharpening.
  4. Cut the aluminum foil several times, usually about 10 strips or more. Depending on the desired sharpness, you can cut the foil several times again.
  5. Use a clean cloth or towel to foil remnants or dust particles.
  6. Test the scissors on scrap paper.

Are Scissors Sharpeners Worth It?

Yes, they are. Simply because they make scissor sharpening a lot easier. Although the other methods mentioned above are the most common ways of sharpening, you have to purchase or find several items before you can start your task.

Meanwhile, a scissors sharpener has a straightforward and ergonomic design that can get the job done without a hitch. Since it is specifically designed for scissors, it is suitable for all types and brands of scissors.

Conclusion

How did you find the steps on how to use a scissors sharpener? Definitely, easy as a breeze! Though you can take the traditional route for alternative procedures, a scissors sharpener also offers a swift and practical way to sharpen scissors. This innovative tool helps you maintain quality and prolong the lifespan of your scissors for the longest time possible. We also write a guideline for Exacto knife, in case you want to learn more about how to maintain other crafting tools.

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