How To Sharpen Dull Scissors – Uses for Steel Wool
How To Sharpen Your Dull Scissors Using Steel Wool - Easy, Simple and Cost Effective Guide

Have your trusty scissors started to lose their sharp edge? Are you finding it hard to make clean cuts, whether you’re tackling craft projects or just opening a package? Don’t rush out to buy a new pair just yet! There’s a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution right at your fingertips: coarse steel wool.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to bring your scissors back to life using steel wool. It’s a straightforward process that anyone can do at home. Let’s dive in!
Why Use Steel Wool?
Steel wool is an incredibly versatile material. Not only is it great for cleaning and polishing, but it also works wonders for sharpening tools. The coarse texture of steel wool makes it perfect for honing the blades of your scissors, providing a smooth and sharp edge without the need for professional sharpening tools. Steel wool has a variety of different uses which can be found on our blog page.

What You’ll Need
- A pair of dull scissors
- Coarse steel wool (available on our website)
- A soft cloth for wiping the blades
- A pair of gloves (optional, but recommended for safety)
Step-by-Step Sharpening Guide
Prepare Your Workspace
- Find a well-lit, flat surface to work on.
- Lay down a cloth or newspaper to catch any steel wool fibers.
Inspect Your Scissors
- Open the scissors wide and examine the blades.
- Look for nicks, rust, or areas that need more attention.
Start Sharpening
- Take your piece of coarse steel wool.
- Hold the scissors, and then cut the coarse steel wool, this will sharpen the blades, although a better method can be used
- Another method is by cutting a small piece of coarse steel wool, gloves can be used for this.
- Rub the steel wool along the edge of the blade, applying moderate pressure to restore the sharpness.
- Repeat this process for the other blade.

Test the Sharpness
- After a few strokes, test the scissors on a piece of paper or fabric.
- If they still feel dull, repeat the sharpening process until satisfied.
Clean Up
- Wipe the blades with a soft cloth to remove any steel wool residue.
- Close the scissors and store them safely.
Additional Tips
- Regular Maintenance: To keep your scissors in top condition, sharpen them periodically.
- Safety First: Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and steel wool fibers.
- Versatility: Steel wool can also be used to sharpen other household tools, making it a valuable addition to your toolkit.
Conclusion
Sharpening your scissors with coarse steel wool is a simple, effective way to extend their life and ensure they cut smoothly every time. Plus, it’s an affordable solution that you can easily do at home. By keeping a supply of steel wool on hand, you can maintain not only your scissors but a variety of other tools as well.
Ready to give it a try? Visit our website to purchase high-quality coarse steel wool and keep your tools in prime condition. Happy sharpening!
