Description
Adjusting the tension on your hairdressing scissors is an essential maintenance task that ensures they perform optimally. Proper tension allows for smooth, precise cutting and reduces hand fatigue. Here's how to adjust the tension on your hairdressing scissors:
Tools Needed:
- A small screwdriver (usually a flathead or Phillips-head, depending on your scissors)
- A soft cloth or tissue
Steps:
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Choose the Right Screw:
- Examine your scissors to identify the tension screw. This is typically located at the pivot point where the two blades meet. The screw may be on the top or bottom blade, depending on the scissor design. Determine whether your scissors have a flathead or Phillips-head screw.
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Prepare the Scissors:
- Ensure that your scissors are clean and dry. Any debris or hair trapped in the pivot area should be removed to allow for a smooth adjustment.
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Loosen the Screw:
- To adjust the tension, you'll either need to tighten or loosen the screw. To loosen it, turn the screw counterclockwise (lefty loosey) using the appropriate screwdriver. Only turn the screw a small amount (a quarter turn) initially.
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Test the Scissors:
- After loosening the screw slightly, test the scissors by opening and closing them. The blades should move smoothly but with some resistance. If the blades feel too loose, continue loosening the screw slightly until you reach the desired tension. Be cautious not to over-loosen, as this can cause the scissors to become too loose and wobbly.
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Tighten the Screw:
- If the scissors were too loose to begin with, you can start by turning the screw clockwise (righty tighty) to increase tension. Again, turn it a small amount (a quarter turn) initially.
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Test the Scissors Again:
- After tightening the screw slightly, test the scissors by opening and closing them. The blades should move smoothly but with some resistance. If the blades feel too tight or are difficult to move, continue tightening the screw slightly until you reach the desired tension. Be cautious not to over-tighten, as this can cause excessive friction and wear on the scissors.
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Final Adjustments:
- It may take a few iterations of loosening and tightening the screw to achieve the perfect tension. Make small adjustments until the scissors feel comfortable and provide the desired level of resistance.
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Wipe and Clean:
- After adjusting the tension, wipe the scissors with a soft cloth or tissue to remove any dust, debris, or residual oil.
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Perform Cutting Tests:
- Finally, perform some cutting tests to ensure that the scissors cut smoothly and precisely. If the scissors are not cutting as desired, you may need to make further adjustments to the tension.
Remember that the ideal tension for hairdressing scissors is a matter of personal preference. Some stylists prefer a looser tension for a smoother cutting motion, while others prefer a slightly tighter tension for more control. Experiment with different tension settings to find what works best for your cutting style and comfort. Regularly adjusting and maintaining the tension on your scissors is essential for ensuring their longevity and optimal performance.