Making the cut

Tools of the trade: Scissors and More

Want to get into building cosplays? You’re going to need a few basic tools. I’m taking the time to go over some of the products I’ve tested and added to my collection over the years. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links that help support my cosplay projects and make it possible for me to continue making *quality* content. Thank you!

Fabric Shears: For years, these were my go-to fabric shears. They are sturdy and reasonably priced. The downside is that they do start to get dull after a while and lose their crisp cut. You’ll have to replace them after a few projects or find someone that will sharpen them for you. Biggest rule of fabric shears? Only cut fabric with them!!! Do not use your fabric shears on paper. This will dull them and turn them into a paperweight.

Pinking Shears: If you have ever cut out a pattern only to have the edges of the fabric begin to unravel and fray, you understand the need for pinking shears. These are essential for woven fabrics. While they don’t completely eliminate fraying, they do minimize it and keep your edges more manageable.

Seam Ripper: Ah, yes. My nemesis. The seam ripper. Even after more than half a decade of making cosplays, this little guy is never more than an arm’s reach away. I’d like to think that I’ve progressed past making simple errors, but I don’t think that will ever be the case. This little guy will quickly undo your mistakes and get you back on track. I had a small one for the longest time but would constantly lose it and waste a bunch of time looking for it. These ones are easier to keep track of and have a nice, ergonomic grip.

Rotary Blade: Some people swear by rotary blades. I haven’t quite mastered them yet. I’m more of a shear person myself, but they are great for thin, slinky fabrics that tend to shift when cutting. I have found rotary cutters to very useful for cutting strips of fabric and foam. I line up my metal ruler with the markers on my cutting mat (see below) and simply run the blade along the edge to make even, straight cuts.

Cutting mat: If you’re going to use a rotary cutter, be sure to get a cutting mat. This will protect your floors, tables, countertops, desks, etc., from being destroyed by the rotary blade. There are smaller ones available for purchase, but I prefer a bigger mat. This way, you don’t have to reposition your fabric halfway through a cut.

. When you’re ready to splurge:
Ernest Wright Tailor Shears

Okay, this a luxury purchase. And I don’t recommend them for the casual crafter. But if you are looking to invest in a tool that’s going to last through your cosplay career, this is the place to do it. My dad came across Ernest Wright a few years ago and purchased a pair of their kitchen scissors. He was really impressed by the quality of the product as well as the story behind their manufacturing (seriously, it’s a really cool story). Not long after receiving his scissors, he ordered me some tailor shears as a birthday present.

Each pair of Ernest Wright scissors is hand crafted and assembled by a “Putter” (shorthand for “putter-together” because they are the ones that “put together” the scissors). The history of this craft is fascinating and if your costuming projects trend towards historic reconstruction, it’s kinda cool to use a tool that is being manufactured almost the same way that it was a hundred years ago. The scissors are made in small batches by two Master Putters along with the assistance of apprentices that are in the process of earning the Putter title (it’s a five year commitment, in case you are wondering).

If you want to add a pair of Ernest Wright scissors to your collection, be aware that they basically exist in a constant state of being backordered. The shop cycles through different styles throughout the year which extends the amount of time needed to produce their different products. I’m pretty sure my dad ordered my pair in May, and I didn’t get them until December. The company does a great job of communicating timelines and expectations. If you do decide to invest in a pair of these, just be aware of the extended manufacturing time and trust the process.

Now the million-dollar question, are they worth the hype?

I have never used a more accurate and precise pair of shears. From the tip to the base of the blade, the cut is smooth and clean. They cut just as easily through a lightweight fabric like silk as they do through several layers of thick wool. I can even target and cut a single machine sewn stitch. Yes, they are that good. I have the 10-inch Tailor Shears, but there are several styles to choose from. They even produce some left-handed versions. My one note of caution, these are some heavy-duty shears and are not going to be to everyone’s liking. During the first few uses I felt like I would have to do some exercises to increase my grip strength, but they have since become my favorite cutting tools.

I am in no way compensated by the Ernest Wright company, this glowing review is based solely on my experience and satisfaction with their product. Even if you’re not interested in throwing down the money to invest in a pair of these shears, I highly recommend visiting the website and learning about the craftmanship that goes into their production. It’s a fascinating story of a bustling trade that once dominated a region of England that would have been lost forever had it not for the dedication of a handful of people who refused to let the technique die.