How to Cut Fabric with Pinking Scissors
By Mrs Quilty - Subscription box for quilters of all levels | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the correct technique for using pinking scissors to cut fabric, prevent fraying, and achieve clean zigzag edges. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Use pinking scissors with a smooth, continuous cut along the fabric edge to create a zigzag seam that resists fraying. Keep the blades fully open for each snip and avoid sawing motions.
Why pinking scissors prevent fraying
The zigzag cut shortens the individual threads along the fabric edge, so loose strands have less length to pull free. This works best on tightly woven cottons and quilting fabrics. On very loosely woven or delicate fabrics, a zigzag cut may still fray—consider a seam finish or serger instead.
Pinking scissors are not designed for cutting curves or intricate shapes; the wide zigzag pattern works best on straight or gently curved edges. For tight curves, use smaller pinking shears or clip the seam allowance after sewing.
How to cut fabric with pinking scissors
- Prepare your fabric: Press the fabric flat and place it on a cutting mat or hard surface. Align the fabric edge so the pinking scissors will cut through the full width of the blade. A wrinkled or folded fabric will produce uneven zigzag teeth.
- Open the blades fully: Hold the scissors with your thumb in the smaller handle and fingers in the larger handle. Open the blades as wide as possible before each cut. This ensures the full zigzag pattern transfers to the fabric. Partial opens create shallow or missing teeth, reducing fray resistance.
- Cut in one smooth motion: Close the blades completely in a single, steady motion. Do not saw back and forth. Move the scissors forward only after each full closure. Keep the fabric edge aligned with the blade guide. Sawing motion can stretch or distort the fabric edge.
- Overlap cuts for long edges: For edges longer than the blade, overlap the previous cut by one or two teeth. This prevents a visible step or gap in the zigzag line. Gaps leave straight segments that are more likely to fray.
- Clean the blades after use: Wipe the blades with a dry cloth to remove lint and residue. Apply a drop of sewing machine oil to the pivot point periodically. Lint buildup can cause blades to stick or cut unevenly.
Product used in this guide
- Stainless Steel Pinking Scissors: Durable stainless steel blades with ergonomic contoured handles. The stainless steel stays sharp longer, and the contoured handles reduce hand fatigue during repeated cuts.
Stainless Steel Pinking Scissors
