How To Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors

As a professional hairdresser, I know that our scissors are the most important tool for us. Over time, even the best hairdressing scissors will lose their sharpness, making it difficult to achieve precise cuts. That's why it's important to learn how to sharpen hairdressing scissors properly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of sharpening hairdressing scissors, as well as the costs and when you should consider professional sharpening services in Australia.

How To Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors - Quick Guide

How To Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors

1. Clean The Scissors

Before sharpening, clean the scissors with a cloth to remove hair and debris.

2. Use A Sharpening Stone Or Kit

Choose a sharpening stone or a specialized sharpening kit for scissors. Hold the scissors at a 30-degree angle to the stone.

3. Sharpen The Blades

Run the blade along the stone from base to tip, applying light pressure. Repeat for 10–15 strokes on each side of the blade.

4. Test The Sharpness

After sharpening, test the scissors by cutting a small piece of paper or hair. If it's not sharp enough, repeat the sharpening process.

5. Lubricate The Scissors

Apply scissors oil or lubricant to the pivot point and blades to maintain smooth operation.

Why Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors?

Hairdressing scissors are made for precision and enable you to cut perfectly. When your scissors get dull, they will pull or catch the hair and give you uneven cuts and irritate both yourself and your clients. Sharpening your scissors is not only going to give you a clean and sharp cut, but it is also going to extend the lifespan of your scissors.

How To Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors At Home

Sharpening scissors yourself at home can save you money and maintain your tools in the best possible condition. Here is a quick guide on how to sharpen your hairdressing scissors at home:

Step 1: Gather The Necessary Tools

You will only need a few tools to sharpen your hairdressing scissors at home:

  • A sharpening stone or sharpening kit designed specifically for scissors

  • A cloth or towel to wipe away any debris

  • Scissors oil (optional, to lubricate after sharpening)

Step 2: Clean The Scissors

Before sharpening, clean the scissors to remove any hair, oils, or other buildup. This will help the sharpening process and ensure an even sharpening job.

Step 3: Use The Sharpening Stone

Hold your scissors at a 30-degree angle to the sharpening stone. Gently run the blades across the stone in a smooth, controlled motion. It’s best to move from the base to the tip of the blade. Repeat this motion for about 10-15 strokes on each side of the scissors. Be sure to apply consistent pressure.

Step 4: Test The Sharpness

After sharpening, test the scissors by cutting a small section of hair or paper. If the scissors are still not sharp enough, repeat the sharpening process until you get the desired result.

Step 5: Lubricate The Scissors

Once your scissors are sharp, apply a small amount of scissors oil to the pivot point and the blades. This will keep the scissors in good working condition and prevent rust.

How Much Does It Cost To Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors In Australia?

While learning how to sharpen hairdressing scissors at home is a cost-effective solution, there are times when professional sharpening is necessary. Professional services ensure that the scissors are sharpened precisely and aligned correctly, which can be difficult to achieve on your own.

How Much Does It Cost To Sharpen Hairdressing Scissors

In Australia, the cost of professional sharpening typically ranges between $20 to $60 AUD, depending on the brand, type of scissors, and location. It’s advisable to have your scissors professionally sharpened once a year or when they start to feel dull despite your at-home efforts.

When To Consider Professional Scissors Sharpening

While it is easy and convenient to sharpen your hairdressing scissors, there are occasions when professional sharpening is best. When your scissors are extremely blunt, faulty, or misshapen, it is best to spend money on professional sharpening rather than risk compromising the performance of your scissors. Moreover, if you own costly or high-quality scissors, a professional sharpening service will ensure that they remain long-lasting and precise..

Sharpening Your Scissors At Home or Professionally

Now that you understand how to sharpen hairdressing scissors at home, you can maintain your scissors in prime condition without always depending on professional aid. Nevertheless, do not shy away from visiting a pro when necessary to reap the best performance.

Keeping scissors sharp is the key to cutting foolproof haircuts, reducing inefficiency, and boosting client satisfaction overall. Sharpening at home or paying a professional to do it is a valuable skill for every stylist to have in their arsenal

Order Your Professional Hairdressing Scissors

If you require high-quality hairdressing scissors or sharpening tools, visit K7 International today. We offer many tools to help you maintain your equipment and deliver top-notch haircuts to your clients.