What is pinking shears?

What is Pinking Shears?

Pinking shears are a type of scissors specifically designed for cutting fabric, particularly for sewing and quilting. They are a must-have tool for any serious sewer or quilter, as they provide a unique way to finish seams and prevent fraying. In this article, we will delve into the world of pinking shears, exploring their history, benefits, and uses.

What are Pinking Shears?

Pinking shears are a type of scissors that have a distinctive zigzag or serrated edge. This unique design allows them to cut the fabric in a way that creates a series of small, angled cuts along the edge of the seam. This process is called "pinking" and is designed to prevent the fabric from fraying or unraveling.

History of Pinking Shears

The concept of pinking shears dates back to the late 19th century, when sewing machines were first becoming popular. At that time, sewing machines were prone to jamming and breaking due to the rough edges of the fabric. To solve this problem, a German inventor named Friedrich Soennecken developed the first pinking shears in the 1880s. These early pinking shears were designed specifically for use with sewing machines and quickly became a staple in many sewing rooms.

Benefits of Pinking Shears

So, why are pinking shears so important? Here are some of the key benefits:

• Prevents Fraying: Pinking shears are designed to prevent fabric from fraying or unraveling, which is especially important for delicate or stretchy fabrics.
• Reduces Raveling: Pinking shears also reduce the amount of raveling that occurs when cutting fabric, which can be a major problem when working with thin or lightweight materials.
• Creates a Professional Finish: Pinking shears provide a professional-looking finish to seams, which is essential for garments, quilts, and other sewn projects.
• Easy to Use: Pinking shears are relatively easy to use, even for beginners, and can be used with a variety of fabrics and sewing techniques.

Types of Pinking Shears

There are several types of pinking shears available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:

• Standard Pinking Shears: These are the most common type of pinking shears and are suitable for most sewing and quilting projects.
• Micro-Pinking Shears: These are designed for use with very thin or delicate fabrics and have a finer, more precise edge.
• Wide-Pinking Shears: These are designed for use with thicker or heavier fabrics and have a wider, more aggressive edge.
• Rotary Pinking Shears: These are designed for use with rotary cutters and have a unique, curved edge that allows for precise cutting and pinking.

How to Use Pinking Shears

Using pinking shears is relatively simple, but there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

• Choose the Right Pinking Shears: Select the right type of pinking shears for your project, based on the type of fabric and the desired finish.
• Cut in the Right Direction: Always cut in the direction of the fabric’s grain, to ensure a smooth, even finish.
• Cut Slowly and Carefully: Cut slowly and carefully, using a gentle, smooth motion to avoid applying too much pressure or causing the fabric to bunch up.
• Use a Ruler or Guide: Use a ruler or guide to help you cut straight lines and maintain a consistent distance between cuts.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few additional tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your pinking shears:

• Use Pinking Shears for Edging: Pinking shears are not just for cutting seams – they can also be used to create decorative edges on fabric, such as ruffles or trim.
• Use Pinking Shears for Quilting: Pinking shears are a must-have tool for quilters, as they allow for precise cutting and pinking of fabric strips and blocks.
• Use Pinking Shears for Garment Construction: Pinking shears are essential for garment construction, as they provide a professional-looking finish to seams and prevent fraying.

Conclusion

Pinking shears are a versatile and essential tool for any sewer or quilter. By understanding the history, benefits, and uses of pinking shears, you can take your sewing and quilting skills to the next level. Whether you’re working on a simple garment or a complex quilt, pinking shears are a must-have tool that will help you achieve professional-looking results.

Table: Types of Pinking Shears

Bullets List: Benefits of Pinking Shears

• Prevents fraying
• Reduces raveling
• Creates a professional finish
• Easy to use
• Suitable for a variety of fabrics and sewing techniques