When it comes to sewing and felt projects, having the right tools can make a difference in how your project turns out. Among these tools, scissors are one of the most important. There are several types of scissors that you might need in your sewing kit, depending on what kind of project you’re working on.
The first type of scissors you’ll need are fabric shears. These are not your everyday paper-cutting scissors; fabric shears are specifically designed for cutting fabric. They have a bent handle that allows the lower blade to slide along the table while the upper blade does the cutting, making it easier to cut straight lines. The blades are also longer than those of regular scissors, allowing you to cut through more fabric at once.
When choosing fabric shears, look for a pair with a comfortable grip and a good weight. They should be heavy enough to cut through fabric easily, but not so heavy that they’re uncomfortable to use. Many crafters prefer shears with ergonomic handles, which can help reduce hand fatigue during long cutting sessions.
Next, you’ll need a pair of embroidery scissors or snips. These small, sharp scissors are perfect for cutting thread and making precise cuts in small areas. They’re also handy for snipping away excess fabric when you’re making appliques or other detailed work.
For felt projects, pinking shears can be incredibly useful. These scissors have saw-toothed blades that leave a zigzag edge when you cut. This edge can prevent the felt from fraying and give your project a finished look even without hemming.
Finally, a good pair of general-purpose craft scissors is always useful to have in your sewing kit. These can be used for cutting paper patterns, trimming interfacing, or any other non-fabric cutting tasks.
Apart from scissors, there are other essential materials needed for felt projects. Felt itself comes in various types: craft felt, acrylic felt, and wool felt being the most common. Craft felt is inexpensive and comes in bright colors, but it’s not very durable. Acrylic felt is more durable than craft felt and also comes in many colors. Wool felt is the most expensive type but is also the most durable and has a beautiful texture.
You’ll also need thread that matches your felt and a set of needles with large eyes for easy threading. A self-healing cutting mat can protect your table surface when you’re cutting out shapes with your new scissors. Pins are helpful for holding pieces together while you sew, and a good-quality sewing machine can make your work much faster and easier.
In conclusion, having the right tools is key to successful sewing and felt projects. High-quality scissors in particular can make your work easier and more enjoyable, as well as helping ensure that your finished projects look their best.
