Threadsnips

Threadsnips are an oddity. This specialised tool can count many craftspeople as devoted users, but plenty of other makers have never even heard of them.

Also known as ’snips or threadclips, threadsnips are small, squeeze-operated cutting tools. They have two sharp blades of equal length, which cut with a bypass action. The main intended use of threadsnips is to snip threads with minimal effort. You might think of them as ‘thread cutting scissors’, although their special design means threadsnips look different to the average scissors pattern.

Anyone who works with thread, including embroiderers, leather-workers, quilters and tailors can use ’snips in their projects. The sprung design of the tool (or the inherent physical tension of some rudimentary models) means the blades will reopen of their own accord after every snip. Because the handles move straight up and down with the spring, rather than slightly diagonally as with scissors, threadsnips can be used in either hand. More on ambidextrous scissors.

Some users like to wear their threadsnips on their hand during periods of crafting when they will cut threads repeatedly. Others prefer to leave the tool in an easy-to-reach place, perhaps on their worktable or the top of their sewing machine. The tool’s sharp blades and spring action ensure you can craft for extended periods with minimal strain on the hand.

Threadsnips are not to be confused with tin snips, which are a type of shears designed to cut sheet metal.