Yes, you can use fabric scissors on Yarn but it’s not recommended. Because it dulls the blades faster than cutting fabric. Yarn fibers create friction that reduces scissor sharpness over time. For long-term use, keep separate scissors for fabric and yarn to preserve cutting precision.
Top brands like Gingher, Fiskars, and Kai offer high-quality scissors specifically suited for various crafting needs. If you want your scissors to stay sharp and in good condition, it’s best to use them only for their intended purpose.
Is It Safe to Use Fabric Scissors on Yarn?
The structure and composition of fabric scissors make them quite different from scissors designed for yarn. To understand whether it’s safe to use fabric scissors on yarn, we need to explore what makes these tools uniquely designed for their intended purposes.
Why fabric scissors are designed differently
Fabric scissors (technically called fabric shears) have distinct characteristics that set them apart from general-purpose scissors. For starters, fabric scissors feature longer and thicker blades compared to regular scissors. These blades are created with a sharper cutting angle, allowing for precise cuts through textured materials. Furthermore, while normal scissors typically use stainless steel, quality fabric scissors are often crafted from carbon steel—a material specifically chosen because it can be sharpened to a finer edge and maintains sharpness longer.
The design elements of fabric scissors serve a particular purpose. Their larger, more comfortable handles provide better grip and control when cutting through yards of material. Additionally, the blades lack serrations and are built at an extremely sharp angle to deliver clean, crisp edges essential for garment construction where precision matters.
As one expert explains, “Any scissor can be used to cut fabric but there are different design elements that go into making a fabric shear that make it a better choice to use with fabric”. Essentially, high-quality fabric scissors are precision instruments created for a specific task—much like a surgeon’s scalpel versus a kitchen knife.
Risks of using them on yarn
Using fabric scissors on yarn presents several risks—primarily to your scissors rather than to the yarn itself. Carbon steel blades on fabric scissors can actually be damaged by materials they weren’t designed to cut. Yarn, despite seeming soft, creates different types of friction and stress on scissor blades compared to fabric.
When you use fabric scissors on yarn regularly, you risk:
- Dulling the precisely engineered sharp edge
- Misaligning the carefully calibrated blades
- Reducing the lifespan of expensive crafting tools
- Compromising future fabric cutting precision
Just as cutting paper with fabric scissors can dull them “even once”, yarn can similarly affect the blades’ sharpness. This happens because fabric scissors are designed with a specific blade angle for clean fabric cuts, and using them on other materials can alter this angle and reduce their effectiveness.
What expert crafters recommend
Professional crafters almost unanimously recommend keeping separate scissors for different materials. According to crafting experts, “Most seamstresses have a pair of scissors for fabric and another for paper. Some even have a third set for thread trimming”. This separation of tools ensures each maintains its optimal cutting ability.
Experts also emphasize that quality crafting tools are investments. Quality carbon steel fabric scissors undergo special manufacturing processes including “hot forging and further hardening” to create superior cutting edges. Due to this specialized construction, they deserve protection through proper use.
Rather than risking your fabric scissors, crafting professionals suggest investing in dedicated yarn scissors or snips designed specifically for yarn projects. These tools are engineered with the properties of yarn in mind and will deliver better results while preserving your fabric scissors for their intended purpose.
Of course, as one expert notes, “YOU, as owner of the scissors, can use them to cut anything you want—always with the knowledge that you might be ruining them as fabric scissors”. Nevertheless, separating scissors by material type remains the most recommended practice among serious crafters.
When It’s Acceptable to Use Fabric Scissors on Yarn
Although fabric scissors aren’t designed for yarn, there are some situations where using them won’t cause immediate damage. Let’s explore when you might reach for your fabric scissors in a yarn emergency and how to minimize potential harm.
Occasional use vs. regular use
The frequency with which you use fabric scissors on yarn makes a significant difference in how quickly they’ll deteriorate. Occasional, emergency use—like when you’re in the middle of a project and can’t find your yarn scissors—generally won’t destroy your fabric scissors overnight.
A one-time cut through yarn might not noticeably dull your fabric scissors right away. Think of it as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily habit. Much like how having dessert once a week probably won’t affect your health, cutting yarn once with fabric scissors probably won’t ruin them immediately.
On the contrary, making it a regular practice to cut yarn with fabric scissors will accelerate the dulling process substantially. The friction created between the steel blades and yarn fibers gradually wears down the precisely honed edge that makes fabric scissors special.
Consider your investment, too. Quality fabric scissors can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 or more, making them a tool worth protecting from misuse. If you find yourself frequently without proper yarn scissors, purchasing a dedicated pair might be more economical in the long run than repeatedly replacing expensive fabric shears.
Types of yarn that are less damaging
Not all yarns are equally harmful to your fabric scissors. Generally, the smoother and less fibrous the yarn, the less damage it will cause to your scissors’ blades.
Cotton yarns tend to be among the least damaging to fabric scissors since they’re composed of smooth, natural fibers. Similarly, some synthetic yarns with a smooth finish may cause less wear on blades than their fuzzy counterparts.
Conversely, these yarn types are particularly hard on scissors:
- Mohair or angora (fuzzy fibers create more friction)
- Wool yarns (especially single-ply varieties)
- Chunky yarns (require more force to cut)
- Yarns with metallic threads or sequins (particularly damaging)
If you absolutely must use fabric scissors on yarn, choosing smooth, thin yarn will minimize potential damage. Cotton embroidery floss, for instance, is far less likely to dull your scissors than a thick, fuzzy wool skein.
Signs your scissors are dulling
Recognizing early warning signs that your scissors are losing their edge allows you to address the issue before they’re completely compromised.
First, pay attention to how your scissors feel during use. When fabric scissors begin dulling, you’ll notice increased resistance while cutting. What once felt like gliding through material now requires more force and pressure. You might also hear a change in sound—from a clean “snip” to a rougher “crunch” as you cut.
Second, examine your cutting results. Dulled scissors tend to chew rather than cleanly slice, leaving behind frayed edges rather than crisp cuts. If your fabric edges look increasingly ragged or if threads are being pushed between the blades rather than cut, your scissors are losing their edge.
Lastly, visual inspection can reveal damage. Look along the blade edge for tiny nicks or an uneven appearance. When held up to light, a properly aligned pair of scissors should show no gaps between the blades when closed. If light passes through when closed, the blades may have become misaligned from improper use.
At the first sign of dulling, it’s wise to either have your scissors professionally sharpened or replace them entirely, depending on their quality and your budget. Meanwhile, retire them from fabric cutting until restored to their proper condition.
Best Alternatives to Fabric Scissors for Yarn
Finding the right cutting tool for yarn projects can make a significant difference in your crafting experience. Instead of risking damage to your fabric scissors, consider these specialized alternatives designed specifically for yarn.
Dedicated yarn scissors
Dedicated yarn scissors are engineered specifically for cutting through yarns of various thicknesses without fraying or creating uneven cuts. These scissors typically feature larger blades than embroidery scissors, making them ideal for thicker materials. They often come with ergonomic handles to reduce hand strain during extended crafting sessions.
Yarn scissors excel at:
- Cutting through bulky or super bulky yarns for projects like blankets or sweaters
- Trimming tassels or fringe evenly
- Handling several strands of yarn simultaneously, saving both time and effort
These specialized tools maintain their sharpness even with regular use on yarn fibers. The blades are designed at an angle that cleanly slices through yarn without crushing or fraying the fibers.
Thread snips and embroidery scissors
Thread snips offer a convenient, one-handed option for yarn crafters. Unlike traditional scissors, most thread snips feature spring-loaded blades that automatically open after each cut, allowing for quick, repeated snips with minimal effort.
Embroidery scissors, alternatively, are small, lightweight tools with sharp, pointed blades perfect for precision work. Their compact size makes them easily portable for on-the-go projects. The sharp, pointed tips allow for cutting close to your work without damaging surrounding stitches.
Thread snips work wonderfully for:
- Quickly changing colors in multi-colored projects
- Trimming yarn strands as you work
- Making adjustments when frogging (undoing stitches)
Whereas embroidery scissors excel at:
- Trimming tails and ends after weaving them in
- Cutting small yarn pieces for colorwork
- Snipping threads for embellishments like beads or sequins
Multi-purpose crafting scissors
For crafters who work with various materials beyond just yarn, multi-purpose crafting scissors offer versatility without sacrificing quality. These scissors typically feature medium-sized blades that can handle different crafting materials.
Some multi-purpose scissors come with additional features like built-in rulers or ergonomic handles designed to reduce hand fatigue. Others offer decorative handles that add personality to your crafting toolkit while still delivering functionality.
Hobby scissors, a type of multi-purpose scissors, often have blunt tips for safety and come in various sizes to accommodate different crafting needs. They’re designed specifically to handle materials that fabric scissors shouldn’t cut, making them a practical addition to any crafter’s collection.
Ultimately, investing in the right scissors for your yarn projects protects your fabric scissors while providing better cutting results for your craft.
How to Choose the Right Scissors for Your Craft
Selecting the perfect scissors for your specific crafting needs requires careful consideration of several factors. The right tool not only improves your crafting experience but also ensures professional-looking results while extending the life of your scissors.
Match scissors to material type
The golden rule of scissor selection is matching the tool to your material. For yarn projects, dedicated yarn scissors with short, sharp blades cut cleanly without fraying fibers. These specialized scissors often feature a spring action that requires gentle pressure to open and close.
Some key pairings to remember:
- Fabric: Long-bladed (8″-9″) shears for clean, straight cuts
- Yarn/Thread: Small 4″ scissors ideal for snipping threads and yarn
- Paper: Universal scissors with non-stick coating to prevent adhesive buildup
- Mixed media: Consider having separate scissors for each material type
Blade material matters too—carbon steel maintains sharpness longer, whereas stainless steel resists rusting. For sticky materials like adhesive-backed paper, non-stick coated blades prevent residue buildup.
Consider your crafting frequency
Your crafting habits should guide your investment level. Casual crafters might find good-quality basic scissors sufficient, while frequent crafters benefit from investing in higher-end options with ergonomic features.
Professional-grade scissors typically offer:
- Superior blade materials that maintain sharpness longer
- Ergonomic handles with soft grips to reduce hand fatigue
- Specialized features like spring-action blades or micro-tips for detailed work
Remember that comfort matters—look for handles that fit your hand size and provide adequate leverage for your typical projects.
Left-handed vs. right-handed options
For left-handed crafters, proper scissors are essential, not optional. True left-handed scissors are mirror images of right-handed ones, with blades reversed to ensure visibility of cutting lines.
The reversed blade alignment serves crucial functions:
- Keeps the cutting line visible during use
- Allows proper pressure application when cutting
- Provides comfortable grip reducing hand strain
Avoid scissors marketed as “ambidextrous” unless specifically designed with true ambidextrous features. Instead, look for scissors explicitly labeled as “true left-handed” to ensure proper blade alignment.
Tips to Keep All Your Scissors in Top Shape
Proper maintenance extends the life of your crafting tools significantly. Even the highest quality scissors require regular care to perform at their best. Let’s explore how to keep your scissors—whether for fabric, yarn, or other materials—in optimal condition for years to come.
Don’t mix scissors between materials
Maintaining separation between different types of scissors is fundamentally important for their longevity. Each pair should have a designated purpose and material. Using fabric scissors on paper can dull them rapidly as paper contains abrasive minerals that stiffen it and make it absorb ink. Moreover, the fibers collect on the blades, causing them to lose their sharp edge.
I recommend labeling your scissors to prevent confusion, especially in households where multiple people might use them. For sticky materials like adhesive-backed paper or tape, keep a separate pair specifically for that purpose, as adhesives leave residue that affects cutting performance.
Use protective sheaths or cases
Storing scissors properly prevents damage to the delicate blades. Initially, consider using the original case or sheath your scissors came with—these are designed specifically to protect your particular model. For scissors without cases, scissor blocks, wall magnets, or dedicated drawers offer excellent alternatives.
Keep your scissors in a cool, dry place, as humidity leads to rust formation. When storing, always ensure the blades are closed to protect the inner edges. This simple habit preserves the alignment between the blades and prevents accidental nicks.
Sharpening and cleaning routines
Professional sharpening services are worth the investment for quality scissors. Experts recommend sharpening your scissors approximately twice a year for regular use, or once yearly for infrequent use. Most crafters don’t have the specialized tools or training needed to sharpen scissors correctly at home.
For cleaning, try these methods depending on the residue:
- For general debris, warm water with dish soap works effectively
- For sticky residues, isopropyl alcohol applied with a cotton ball removes adhesives
- For more stubborn stickiness, specialized cleaners designed for craft tools
Subsequently, apply a drop of sewing machine oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. This small maintenance step makes a significant difference in performance and comfort during use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scissors for your yarn projects ultimately preserves both your tools and your crafting experience. Throughout this guide, we’ve seen that fabric scissors, while tempting to use for all cutting needs, deserve protection from materials they weren’t designed to handle. Though occasional emergency yarn cutting might not immediately destroy your fabric shears, repeated use will certainly dull their precisely engineered edges.
Most importantly, dedicated alternatives exist that perform better with yarn anyway. Thread snips, embroidery scissors, and purpose-made yarn scissors all offer superior cutting experiences without risking your expensive fabric shears. These specialized tools make clean cuts through various yarn types without fraying or damaging fibers.
Additionally, proper storage and maintenance routines significantly extend the life of all your scissors. Simple habits like using protective sheaths, keeping scissors separated by purpose, and scheduling regular cleanings make a remarkable difference in performance and longevity.