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When it comes to cutting your fabric, there are several different cutting tools to help make your cutting job easier. If you don't sew a lot then you might not need them all, but if you plan on sewing a lot, then these tools will help to save time, and make your job easier in the long run.
First, you should always make sure your tools are sharp, especially your scissors, because a dull pair of scissors just might ruin your beautiful fabric. Designate a pair of sewing scissors strictly for sewing only so that it doesn't loose its sharpness.
Bent-handled dressmaker's shears
Bent-handled dressmaker's shears have a bent handle which puts the lower blade at an angle which allows the fabric to lie flat on the cutting surface while cutting. These come in different lengths of 7"-12" long, with the shorter ones being the most popular.
There are several types of these shears that you can buy. If you do a lot of sewing you want to invest in a good pair of chrome plated shears ideal for heavy duty sewing. Stainless steel blades are suitable for lightweight fabrics and for synthetics, and slippery knits you should use a serrated-edge sears fro maximum cutting control.
Pinking Shears or Scalloping Shears
These shears will cut a zigzag or scalloped edge which will prevent the cut edge from raveling. These are great to finish seams or raw edges on various different fabrics.
Rotary Cutter
A rotary cutter works similar to a pizza cutter, with a retractable blade for safety. It should always be used with a mat in order to protect the blade and the cutting surface.
Sewing Scissors
Sewing scissors are normally pointed on one blade and rounded on the other, which makes them great from clipping seams and facings. These blades usually measure about 6" in length.
Seam Ripper
A seam ripper is great for opening seams, and buttonholes. Be careful when using the seam ripper so that you don't pierce or damage the fabric.
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