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Making The Cut

By: Alex De Mostafa

It is believed that scissors were invented in ancient Egypt about 1500. Early scissors appeared in the Middle East some 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. The scissors worked with a spring that comprised two bronze blades connected at the handles by a thin, curved strip of bronze. This strip served to bring the blades together when squeezed and to pull them apart when released. Cross-bladed scissors were invented by the Romans around AD 100. Pivoted scissors of bronze or iron, in which the blades were connected at a point between the tips and the handles, were used in ancient Rome, China, Japan, and Korea, but spring scissors continued to be used in Europe until the sixteenth century and the idea is still used in almost all modern scissors.

Today there are many different kinds of scissors, used to create a variety of styles and cuts. From thinning and styling shears, to tempered and left-handed shears; each pair of scissors is designed to perform a specific task. Some are used to create subtle effects while others are used for more basic haircuts. While some stylists use razors or clippers to achieve more extreme results, barber shears are the industry standard. Stylists are also concerned with the production quality and the materials used as well as the tension system the shears utilize.

The quality of the cut depends on the quality of the scissors, the skill of the stylist and the techniques being employed. A particularly creative cut may require several different types of scissors, but even the most basic hair cut demands something that provides an accurate, clean cut. Inferior quality scissors or scissors with dull blades can greatly impact the haircut and may even cause damage to the hair.

There are several types of scissors available on the market today. Beveled blades feature one serrated edge and one straight edge and are ideal for layer cuts, tapered cuts and the "scissor over the comb" method. Convex blades are razor sharp and give a clean, flawless cut making them ideal for slide cutting. These are suitable for stylists who cut with their thumb and middle finger.

Scissors types include opposing grips that feature handles of the same length; symmetrical to the center screw. Offset grips feature a short thumb handle and a longer finger handle, which allow for more natural, fluid movement and are suitable for individuals who cut with the thumb and ring finger. Crane grips feature a long finger handle and an angled thumb. This ensures less strain on the wrist and shoulder and allows a freer, open cut. Other varieties include varying types of thumb grips. Some will feature a removable and reversible finger resting piece that can be attached to either the left or right grip allowing for greater versatility for the wearer.

Cutaway thumb scissors do not feature the reversible finger resting piece, but they are able to provide exceptional comfort for the wearer. Anatomic thumb scissors allow for greater radial movement due to their curved design and they provide more freedom of movement for the stylist. Swivel thumb scissors are a newer advancement in the industry. They reduce hand and wrist strain and feature an open hand grip design, which reduces thumb "travel" and creates a more comfortable experience for the stylist.

The other primary consideration that a stylist must make is with the length of the blades of the scissors. The correct blade length is dependant on the comfort and preferred styling methods of the hairstylist. Short blades are useful for detailed touchups, such as cutting around the ears or very close to the skin. This type of blade is recommended for all stylists particularly for more intricate cutting. The blade should be no longer than 5.5 inches. Long blades are ideal for cutting thick hair, slide cutting, scissor over comb methods, and bobs.

Although comfort is of primary importance, a professional stylist will have spent much time researching the different scissors available and utilize the one most appropriate to their cutting styles and the techniques that they practice.

Article Source: http://www.newarticledaily.com

Kissaki Shears.com has been selling hair scissors and Razors for the Professional Hair Stylist since 2001. We sell worldwide and have tens of thousands satisfied clients. Our success is attributed to our high quality products at a great value and our emphasis on customer satisfaction. Visit online today.

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