What are Folding Scissors?
Folding scissors are often small, embroidery type scissors that fold up to protect the points. The folding mechanism allows you to carry the scissors safely when traveling. Some find folding scissors convenient to attach to a key ring or store in a pocket, purse, tackle box, first aid kit, sewing kit, desk drawer or car glove compartment. Campers, hikers and backpackers also find folding scissors useful. Most folding scissors cut through fabric, plastic, paper, thread and tape.
Some models have plastic coated handles. Those with bigger loops for handles are more accommodating for large fingers. Folding scissor options include needle point blades when precise cutting is needed. Some folding scissors are sold with a protective sheath.
Various other features include die cast handles, heat treated blades and hand assembly. Although they vary in length, most are approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in length when open and 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) when closed.
The cost of folding scissors varies greatly, although inexpensive versions might not fold and unfold smoothly. Quality scissors feature stainless steel blades. Countries that manufacture folding scissors include Germany, France, the United States and China. Folding scissors are sold at hardware, craft, grocery and big box retail stores, and are readily available online.
Some companies that manufacture folding scissors will enclose the scissors in a pouch personalized with a company name or logo to be used for promotional purposes. Most scissors fold into a rectangular shape, but one unique model of folding scissors folds into a circular shape.
Folding scissors are often part of a utility knife, also. Some snipper type folding scissors fold up similar to a pocket knife. Some such snipper scissors feature spring loaded blades and soft rubber grips.
Folding scissors are not a new invention. Vintage and antique folding scissors are available for sale as collector’s items. Some vintage folding scissors feature pearl-like handles; others come in original packaging or leather case. One vintage design called stork scissors because of the decorative markings which make the scissors resemble a bird with the blades forming the beak.
Written by Cathy Rogers
