Preparation

Whether you’re cutting a piece of cloth or trimming vegetables in the kitchen, the right scissors can make all the difference. “A good pair of scissors can make smoother and easier cuts, be more precise, and even ease hand cramping and discomfort,” says May Flaum, crafts ambassador at Brother. While it may seem excessive to own multiple variations of the same tool, crafter Kristin Gambaccini of Perfectly DeStressed says having an arsenal of quality, task-specific scissors on hand can be crucial to completing certain projects at home. “Different scissors are made for different things, and a good pair of scissors dedicated to the medium you are using will make your crafting life much easier,” she explains.

With all the different types of scissors on the market, it’s important to determine which ones are right for a specific DIY job. “Always consider the projects and materials you intend to use the scissors for,” advises Flaum. “What makes for an outstanding pair of cutting scissors for a collage artist will not be the same qualities an embroidery enthusiast, seamstress, or someone who works with leather and heavy goods would need.” Along with being task-appropriate, Flaum says a quality pair of shears should be sharp, as well as comfortable to hold and use. “They should also be composed of long-lasting materials,” she adds. “A good pair of scissors can last well over a decade.”

Not sure what kind of scissors you’ll need for a specific task at home? From the best scissors for snipping thread to fabric-friendly shears and more, experts share the right pair of scissors for every household job ahead.