3 embroidery scissors you shouldn't live without

We have 45 years of experience with scissors here at Kreinik. We cut a lot of thread daily. Just like you, we lament when our scissors go missing, complain about dull cheap scissors, and we collect them. When it comes to cutting thread, fabric, paper or anything, the right scissor makes the job better and easier. Everyone deserves better, easier, and happier stitching. 

Early in the company, Jerry and Estelle Kreinik sold their favorite scissors alongside their metallic threads. They carried several brands over the years, more recently with Doug Kreinik bringing in the Premax line. Why this line? Well, we do love all things Italian (they are made in Premana, Northern Italy), but they are also just really really good scissors. Like, really good quality. 

We carry scissors that are most beneficial to needleworkers—needlepoint, cross stitch, knitting, crochet, weaving, quilting—and fiber artists. You can see the full range here. Among these, three stand out as if-you've-never-seen-these-you-are-going-to-love-them scissors. They are consistently the most asked-for and highest rated among needlework shops and stitchers. So check out our top three scissors you shouldn't live without:

Ring-lock Embroidery Scissors

That round circle does more than resemble a cute little bird's eye; it means that the scissors won't get loose like scissors with a screw. So technically yes, they are superior scissors, but they are also charming and unlike any other scissor out there. A sort of wavy svelte profile offering a lifetime of cutting greatness—yes, please!

10 tips to know about Premax Ring-Lock 

1. Modern look
2. Mirror-polished stainless steel
3. Made in Premana, Italy
4. Very sharp
5. The patented "ring lock" replaces the screw, "guaranteeing smoother, more accurate cutting and longer life expectancy for the blade" (from Premax)
6. Comes in 3 3/4" size with a short blade (Kreinik X301)
7. Or choose 3 3/4" size available with a short, curved blade (Kreinik X302C and X304C)
8. Or get 4 1/4" size with a longer blade (Kreinik X401, X402)
9. Available with serrated blades* (Kreinik X401S, X402S, X301S, X302CS, X304CS)
10. Will elicit "Where did you get these?" from your stitching friends

Double Curved Scissors

The benefit of a curved blade is simple but huge: it gets you in tight or angled places. Double curved (the blade is curved, the handle is curved) means it just helps you maneuver into your cutting spot that much more. If you've encountered an odd angle and need to cut, these are the scissors for you. They work for all kinds of stitch techniques: 

• If you do machine sewing, a double curved scissor will help you cut close to the foot
• If you do quilt applique, they help you get closer to your edge
• If you do needlepoint, use them for cutting the loops in turkey work or cutting around 3-D and embellished areas
• For Hardanger and other cutwork, they will help you cut closer and ease those odd angles
• If you cross stitch, they make it easier to cut threads inside an embroidery hoop

5 facts about the Premax double-curved scissors

1. Shiny; made of carbon steel, nickel plated
2. Made in the Premana region of Northern Italy
3. Available in large 6" size with longer blades (Kreinik X621C)
4. Available in "embroidery" size 4 1/4" with very sharp short blades (Kreinik X423C)
5. Also available with serrated blades (Kreinik X423CS)

Purple Haze Embroidery Scissors

This is a sharp little work-horse scissor that will meet all of your cutting needs as you sit and stitch at home or in class. The best part, however: purple handles! The regal color is as pretty as a flower and just lifts your mood. It's a classic color that will never go out of style.

6 highlights of this Premax beauty

1. 3 1/2" very sharp scissor
2. Handles are double coated to permit the decorative pattern, but that makes them feel soft and smooth
3. Nickel plated carbon steel
4. Made in Premana, Italy
5. Available with serrated (Kreinik X308S) or non-serrated blades (X308)
6. Will definitely cause envy in all of your friends (makes a nice gift for your closest pals)

* About serrated blades

Some recommend that you use a serrated blade for cutting metallic threads. This blade, as opposed to knife-edge, has "teeth" that hold the thread in place as you cut. Serrated blades are often used in sewing for cutting slippery fabrics; the "teeth" help grip the material during the cut. Serrated scissors from Kreinik/Premax will have an S in the item number.