Scissors are a marvellous invention and their evolution over time has been pretty impressive.

What seems like a very basic mechanism is actually pretty detailed and more complicated than you would expect.

Some scissor smiths are not able to sit at the final assembly table until 5 years of training has been completed.

From bends to grinds with twists in them to serrations, varied agles to the cutting edge, shapes of edges, different types of retaining and tensioning parts, sets, balance, weights, ergonomics, dimensions and designs. The list is extremely extensive.

So why does it cost so much for a great set of shears and to have them sharpened?

The simple answer to that is time, experience and very expensive machinery.

As a sharpener you can't just rely on running an edge to a stone and the scissor cutting perfectly when you are done.

90% of all grooming scissors and 30% of dressmaker and standard shears will have other issues from being dropped, bent, broken, chipped, over or under tensioned, incorrect or missing parts, bad factory grinds, steel or manufaturing.

This is where you need to understand how the scissor is actually made, what designs are meant to be there and what are actually issues.

Spare parts are also a necessity as things such as washers, springs and clicker plates wear over time.

So with all this to consider, it’s best to take the time to research who you choose to take care of your precious shears and not just leave it to anyone as some damage is unrepairable.