The Science Behind the Cut: Why Materials Matter in Scissor Making
At Whiteley, we believe that exceptional scissors begin with exceptional materials. Every cut, every slice, and every precise movement depends not only on expert craftsmanship but on the science behind the materials we choose and the processes we apply. From the type of steel to the coatings we use, every detail contributes to the performance, longevity, and feel of a truly superior pair of scissors.
Forging: Strength from the Start
All our scissors begin as forged blanks, a process where heated steel is shaped under pressure, compacting the internal grain structure and eliminating weaknesses or porosity that can form in cast or stamped metal. Forging increases the strength and toughness of the steel, which is crucial for scissors subjected to regular mechanical stress.
This process also ensures uniformity in the steel’s internal structure, which is essential when precision and consistency are non-negotiable, especially for tools used in professional environments.
Advanced Coatings for Enhanced Performance
To further improve blade performance and tailor scissors to different applications, we use a variety of specialised coatings:
– PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Commonly known by the brand name Teflon, this coating significantly reduces friction and prevents sticky materials like tape or fabric adhesives from gumming up the blades. It also adds corrosion resistance. Our 7” PTFE Coated Paper Scissors are a great example.
– TiN (Titanium Nitride): A gold-coloured ceramic coating applied via Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD). It dramatically increases surface hardness, reduces friction, and extends blade life – ideal for professional tailoring shears.
– WC-C (Tungsten Carbide Carbon): Found on our 10” black tailors’ shears, this coating offers exceptional abrasion resistance and surface hardness. It is ideal for heavy-duty use where durability is essential.
– Ceramic: A high-performance coating that provides ultra-low friction, high wear resistance, and excellent corrosion protection, typically used in precision or industrial-grade cutting tools such as our 10” Ceramic Coated Fabric Shears.
These coatings are not just cosmetic they offer real, measurable benefits in performance, cleanliness, and longevity depending on the end-use scenario.
Craftsmanship Meets Material Science
Each pair of Whiteley scissors goes through a carefully controlled production process including:
– Bow dressing
– Drilling and tapping
– Hardening and tempering
– Rumbling and polishing
– Grinding and sharpening
– Final assembly and inspection
Every stage is handled by our skilled team in Sheffield, combining centuries-old techniques with modern material science. Rigorous quality checks, including cutting tests on appropriate materials to ensure that each pair meets our exacting standards before it ever leaves the factory.
Why It Matters
In scissor making, materials are not just the starting point, they define the product’s identity. By using high-grade carbon or stainless steels, applying appropriate coatings, and investing in advanced heat treatments, we ensure that our scissors aren’t just tools they’re long-term companions, trusted by professionals and hobbyists alike.
When you choose Whiteley, you’re not just buying a pair of scissors. You’re investing in a piece of engineering excellence, built for performance, designed to last, and made with pride in Sheffield, England.
Most high-quality scissors, including ours, are made from carbon steel and for good reason. Unlike mild or lower-grade steels, carbon steel contains a higher percentage of carbon (typically around 0.6–1.0%), which allows it to be hardened through heat treatment. This hardness is essential for edge retention – the ability of the blades to stay sharp after repeated use.
Carbon steel is also easier to sharpen to a finer edge than stainless steel, making it ideal for scissors that need to deliver precise, clean cuts through a range of materials. However, because carbon steel is more prone to corrosion, protective coatings or the use of stainless alloys may be applied depending on the end use of the scissors.