Upholstery Hand Tools

Upholstery Hand Tools

Choose shears for panels, curves and upholstery fabric

Compare overall tool length, the cutting edge and handle orientation against the cuts your project requires.

Start with the longest cut

A large seat panel and a small boxed corner call for different movements. Kai lists the 7205 at 205 mm overall, the 7250 at 250 mm and the 7300 at 300 mm. Use those sizes to compare how much tool you have room to move on your work surface.

Separate the edge from the size

Kai lists the 7250 and micro-serrated 7250SE at the same 250 mm. If your concern is fabric shifting at the cut, compare the serrated edge while holding the tool size steady. Confirm the stated use for the particular fabric you are planning to cut.

Check handedness on the exact model

The Kai range lists a dedicated left-handed 7250L alongside the 7250 and 7250SE. Check the suffix before ordering and consider which hand will hold the tool while the other keeps the panel steady.

Store the cutting edge safely

Kai advises using a holder or sheath and inspecting the scissors for damage. For upholstery work, set a place for the shears away from the staple-removal area so you can put them back between cuts.

Source documentation

Guide questions

Can I compare shears by the length in their names?

Use the maker’s overall measurement for the space the tool occupies, and its blade measurement for cutting span when it provides one.

Should I size a shear by the longest edge of the seat alone?

Also consider the turns around the pattern and the room for your handle. Use actual blade length when it is documented.

How do I isolate the effect of a serrated edge?

Compare two variants of the same size, such as the Kai 7250 and 7250SE, and match the edge to the fabric you need to control.

Which accessory suits the job?

  1. Keep the tool length and compare the cutting edge. Kai offers the plain 7250 and micro-serrated 7250SE at the same nominal 10 inches. Compare the SE when you need more grip on a fabric that shifts at the blades. Check the exact suffix and your fabric before choosing.

    Kai 7250 10-Inch Professional Shears ↗Kai 7250SE 10-Inch Serrated Professional Shears ↗

  2. Compare blade span for short and long cuts. The straight Wiss 37N has a 2.875-inch blade. The bent W20 has a 4.75-inch blade and is intended for tough materials including upholstery fabric. Choose according to the cut and the room for the handle.

    Crescent Wiss 37N Straight Industrial Trimmers ↗Crescent Wiss W20 Bent-Handle Upholstery Shears ↗

Accessories in this guide

Shop these departments