Choosing Scissors and Snips
Knitting scissors are small, sharp, dedicated scissors used only for cutting yarn — never for cutting paper or fabric. The dedicated use keeps them sharp.
Recommended A printable technique cheat-sheet for your knitting bag.
Embroidery scissors
Small (10–12 cm) sharp scissors with fine points. Good for cutting yarn close to the work and for snipping individual fibres. Stork-shaped embroidery scissors are a popular traditional choice.
Thread snips
Small spring-loaded snips that cut with a squeeze. Faster than scissors for routine yarn-cutting. Popular with knitters who travel with projects (no scissors needed for short snips).
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Travel safety
For air travel, choose snips or scissors with blades under 4 inches (typically allowed). Some knitters use a small thread cutter pendant (a covered blade on a chain) that slips through security with no issues.
Care
Sharpen with a small whetstone or send to a sharpening service. Dedicated yarn scissors stay sharp for years if never used on paper or other materials.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| BO | bind off |
Tips
- Dedicate a pair of scissors to yarn only — paper dulls them quickly.
- For travel, choose blades under 4 inches.
- Sharpen yearly to maintain a clean cut.
In depth
Knitting scissors are a small investment that pay back across every project. A dull pair of scissors is one of the most frustrating things in knitting, leading to crushed yarn ends and frayed cuts. Dedicated, sharp scissors take 2 seconds to use and produce clean cuts every time.