Sharpening hair scissors with sandpaper is a DIY method that uses the abrasive surface of the sandpaper to hone the blades. While professional sharpening is recommended for valuable hair scissors, sandpaper can provide a temporary fix if done carefully.
Understanding Sandpaper Sharpening
Sandpaper contains abrasive particles (like aluminum oxide or silicon carbide) glued to a backing material. When a dull blade is drawn across this surface, the abrasives scrape away tiny amounts of metal, creating a sharper edge. The fineness of the sandpaper grit determines how much material is removed and the polish of the resulting edge.
How to Sharpen Hair Scissors with Sandpaper
Here’s a method based on using sandpaper, incorporating the steps outlined in the provided reference:
- Prepare the Sandpaper: Take a sheet of sandpaper (a finer grit like 1500 or 2000 is generally better for hair scissors to avoid removing too much metal) and fold it in half so both rough sides are facing outwards. This creates two abrasive surfaces for simultaneously working on both blades.
- Simulate Cutting: Hold your hair scissors as you normally would to cut. Position the folded sandpaper between the blades.
- Cut Through the Sandpaper: Cut through the folded sandpaper with full strokes. This means starting at the base of the blade near the pivot and moving the blades smoothly together all the way up to the tips.
- Repeat the Process: Repeat this cutting action several times (e.g., 5-10 times). The abrasive action of the sandpaper will slowly sharpen the blade edges as they pass through.
Important Considerations for Hair Scissors
Hair scissors are precision tools. Using sandpaper, especially coarser grits, can potentially damage the fine edge required for cutting hair cleanly.
- Grit Size: Opt for very fine grit sandpaper (1500, 2000, or even finer) over coarse grits. Coarser grits remove more material quickly but leave a rougher edge that won't cut hair smoothly and can even nick the blade.
- Gentle Technique: Use consistent, smooth strokes. Avoid forcing the scissors through the sandpaper or making jerky movements.
- Test Sharpness: After a few cuts, test the sharpness on a piece of tissue or cotton wool. Cleanly cutting these materials without folding or snagging indicates improvement.
- Clean Thoroughly: Sandpaper creates metal dust and debris. After sharpening, wipe the blades clean with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove all particles. Lubricate the pivot screw with a drop of scissor oil.
- Professional Sharpening: For high-quality or expensive hair scissors, seeking professional sharpening is often the best option to maintain their specific edge and balance.
While sandpaper can temporarily improve a dull edge on general scissors, exercise caution when using it on hair scissors.
