11” Bookbinder Scissors

£ 152.00

Out of stock

Attention

This model is currently out of stock. It is not available on backorder, as we have not yet started the process of producing a batch of this particular model. As soon as we have a good estimate on the schedule for a new batch, we will switch the status of this model to "Back-order" or even to "In Stock".

MADE IN SHEFFIELD

A bookbinder works with paper, bookcloth and sometimes leather to mend or create cherished books. Perfecting each component requires a cutting technique that is at once crisp, decisive and careful.

We designed the 11″ Bookbinder Scissors to meet the particular requirements of the bookbinder’s craft. The blades are long, straight, and enduringly sharp thanks to their carbon steel composition. Crucially, their cutting length exceeds the height and width of most books – so they can cut the materials in one or two actions.

Whereas some craftspeople, such as embroiderers and quilters, require scissors with a sharp point, in bookbinding a pointy tip brings the risk of removing slightly too much material. To help bookbinders cut with perfect accuracy – especially around the tricky corners of bookcloth and paper pieces – we’ve ground a flat, soft-edged point onto the 11″ Bookbinder Scissors.

The 11″ Bookbinder Scissors have been adapted from a 1980s pattern of Paperhanger Scissors, which is also part of the Ernest Wright range. While the Bookbinder Scissors were custom-made for bookbinding, they are also suitable for some other crafts where precision is paramount, such as collage-making.

DETAILS

Type: Bookbinding / Paper craft scissors / Crafts
Use: Bookbinders, artisan, creative craft, cutting paper / wallpaper / craft
Total length: 11″ /27.94 cm
Blade length: 5.7″ / 14.48 cm
Weight: 281 g
Material: Hot drop forged high quality carbon steel,
long-life precision edge retention
Finish: Hand polished
Packaging: Handmade leather pouch

Evolution of Roles and Names

Scissors and shears, essential cutting tools, have various names and uses. Interestingly, seemingly distinct scissor models often share origins. Over time, their roles evolve, leading to new names and specialties.

For instance, the 11″ Bookbinder Shears are adapted from 12″ Paper Hanger blanks by simply flattening the point of one of the blades. While the bottom blade remains untouched, the top blade is shaped through grinding to ensure smooth and precise performance when cutting bookbinding materials.

Tailor’s shears once for fabrics, now cut leather, paper, metals—expanding roles, new names. Kitchen shears, originally poultry shears, embrace versatility, becoming “kitchen shears.”

This evolution showcases adaptability. Tools shift due to needs, tech, and craftsmanship. They embody history and innovation. Holding scissors is holding a piece of ever-changing human creativity.