Pinking shears

Prevent unsightly, frayed fabric edges and give your creations a neat, professional finish! With pinking shears , also called zigzag shears , you can easily cut a decorative zigzag edge that effectively prevents fraying of most fabrics. Indispensable tools for sewing, making clothes and various hobby projects.

Discover the versatility of pinking shears (zigzag shears)

Pinking shears are specialized shears with blades that cut in a zigzag or serrated pattern rather than a straight line. Their primary function is to prevent fraying at the edges of fabric. The zigzag pattern means that the individual threads of the fabric are not cut straight across, which greatly reduces the tendency for unraveling.

Prevent Fabric Fraying with Pinking Shears

When you cut fabric with regular scissors, you create a straight edge where the fibers can easily come loose, leading to fraying. Zigzag scissors distribute the tension along the edge over many more points, reducing the force on individual threads and minimizing the chance of fraying. This makes pinking shears a quick and effective way to finish seams, especially on fabrics that are prone to fraying.

More than just practical: a Decorative Border

In addition to their practical function, pinking shears also offer a decorative benefit . The zigzag edge can be used as a finish on its own, for example on non-fraying fabrics such as felt, fleece, or some types of leather/leatherette. It gives a playful or finished look to projects such as crafts, mannequin clothing, or the hems of certain garments.

Choosing the right pinking shears: what should you pay attention to?

When selecting the perfect pinking shears for your project, there are a few key factors to consider:

The serrated edge: standard zigzag and variations

The most common pinking shears produce a standard zigzag pattern. The size and density of the 'teeth' can vary. A finer serration is more subtle and suitable for more delicate fabrics, while a coarser serration is more robust and suits thicker fabrics or gives a more pronounced decorative effect. Check the specifications of the shears to see what type of serration they produce.

Comfort and material: a sustainable choice

Quality pays off, especially when it comes to scissors. Choose pinking shears made of high-quality steel that stays sharp for a long time. Brands like Premax are known for their durability and precision. Also pay attention to the handles: ergonomic handles , often made of comfortable plastic or with a special coating, reduce fatigue during prolonged use and ensure better control while cutting. Innovations like the Ring Lock System (found at Premax, for example) can ensure a consistently smooth cutting experience and a longer lifespan of the scissors.

Different Sizes for Different Jobs

Pinking shears come in a variety of sizes. Smaller shears are useful for detailed work and cutting short pieces. Larger shears, similar to dressmaker’s shears, are ideal for cutting longer, straight edges on larger pieces of fabric. Think about the projects you will be using the shears for most when choosing the right size.

Cartel shears in practice

Pinking shears are a valuable addition to any sewing or crafting station. They greatly speed up the process of finishing edges compared to zigzagging on a sewing machine and are essential for projects where a neat, non-fraying edge is desired without additional stitching.

Applications: from clothing to home textiles

Use your pinking shears to finish seams when making clothes, skirts, pants, or accessories. They are also perfect for cutting placemats, napkins, bunting, or finishing the edges of blankets and pillows where you don't want to make a hem.

Maintenance for long-lasting sharpness

To keep your pinking shears in top condition, clean the blades after use to remove dust and fiber residue. Store the shears in a dry place. High-quality steel shears require professional maintenance when they become blunt; do not attempt to sharpen them yourself with a standard sharpener. Pinking shears cannot be sharpened.

Discover our collection of pinking shears and zigzag shears now and choose the scissors that perfectly suit your sewing and crafting needs for a neat, fray-free finish every time!

Frequently Asked Questions about Pinking Shears