You can sharpen scissors with a few common household items, the most popular being aluminum foil.
Here's a breakdown of how to sharpen scissors using different methods:
Sharpening Scissors with Aluminum Foil
This is a quick and easy method for lightly sharpening scissors.
- Prepare the Foil: Take a sheet of aluminum foil (about 20cm/8 inches).
- Fold the Foil: Fold the foil lengthwise multiple times (4-8 times) to create a thick, narrow strip.
- Cut the Foil: Using the entire length of the scissor blades, cut into the folded aluminum foil. Repeat this process multiple times (around 10-20 times). The friction between the foil and blades will sharpen them.
- Test the Scissors: Test the sharpness of the scissors on paper. If needed, repeat the process.
Other Methods for Sharpening Scissors
While aluminum foil is a common method, other options exist:
- Sharpening Stone: A sharpening stone (also known as a whetstone) can be used to sharpen scissors, but it requires more skill. Hold the scissors at the correct angle (usually close to the original bevel) and move the blade across the stone. Caution: This method requires practice and can damage the scissors if not done correctly.
- Screw or Needle: Carefully closing the scissors onto a sturdy metal object like a needle or screwdriver can slightly realign the blades. Run the blades down the object as if you're cutting it. This is best for realigning rather than seriously sharpening.
- Professional Sharpening: For valuable or very dull scissors, professional sharpening is the best option.
Why Scissors Dull
Scissors become dull with use due to:
- Wear and Tear: The blades rub against each other and the materials being cut, causing wear.
- Misalignment: The blades may become misaligned over time, reducing their cutting effectiveness.
- Cutting Hard Materials: Cutting materials harder than the scissor blades can damage them.
By using simple methods like the aluminum foil trick or investing in a sharpening stone, you can keep your scissors in good working condition. However, for deeply dull or misaligned scissors, professional sharpening is recommended.
