Sharpen dull kitchen scissors in 2 minutes
Are your scissors chewing the paper instead of cutting? Here's how to sharpen them without a whetstone.
Recommended Materials
- Aluminum foil
- Sandpaper (fine grain)
- Glass jar
Steps to follow
Step 1
The aluminum foil method: Take a sheet of household aluminum foil. Fold it on itself several times to obtain a thick strip of 6 or 8 layers. With your blunt scissors, cut thin strips from this thickness of aluminum along the entire length of the blades. The friction of metal against metal will straighten the edge of the blade and sharpen it.
Step 2
The sandpaper method (Most effective): Buy a sheet of fine-grit sandpaper (150 or 200 grit). Simply cut the sandpaper with your scissors several times. The abrasive (rough) side should rub against the blades. Make around ten clean cuts.
Step 3
The glass jar method: Take an empty glass jar (jam type) with smooth walls. Open the scissors wide. Place the blades on either side of the neck or body of the jar, as if you were cutting the glass. Make cutting motions by sliding the blades along the glass while squeezing lightly. Glass is harder than the steel of scissors and will sharpen the edge.
Step 4
Cleaning: After sharpening, carefully wipe the blades with a damp cloth to remove micro-particles of metal, glass or aluminum before cutting anything else.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about kitchen knives ?
No! These methods are specific to scissors that have a particular cutting angle (bevel). For knives, use a sharpening steel, sharpening stone, or the bottom of a ceramic mug.
Precautions
- Watch your fingers.
- Do not use your sewing scissors to cut paper (this sharpens them).
