Thread snips and thread scissors
Thread snips for quick trimming right by the sewing machine
A thread snip is a small tool with no finger loops: squeeze the two arms with your fingers, the blades close, then let go and the spring opens them again. You trim thread tails in a second without slipping your fingers in and out, which is why it's the tool that always sits next to the sewing machine and the serger.
In this category you'll find thread snips with a metal handle and a protective sheath for the tips, plus small thread scissors – including the PRYM Professional 12 cm thread scissors with a soft handle and protective cover – for anyone who prefers a scissor grip.
Products: 4
How to choose thread snips
Spring snips or thread scissors
Spring snips: the fastest option for trimming thread ends while sewing. Held in the palm, usually suitable for either hand, and no need to put your fingers through rings.
Small thread scissors: give more precise control at the tip, convenient for cutting close to the fabric and for those used to a scissor grip.
What to check in thread snips
Pointed tip: fine tips slip between stitches and let you cut thread very close to the fabric.
Sheath or protective cover: protects the tips, prevents pricks in the sewing box and extends blade life.
Handle: a metal handle is durable and stable; a soft or ergonomic handle is comfortable during long sessions.
Tips for proper use
Cut thread only – not paper, not labels and not heavy fabric.
Put the sheath back on after every use, especially when the snips get tossed into a bag or box.
Snips don't replace a seam ripper: to unpick a whole seam, a dedicated seam ripper is better.
Keep a pair of snips next to every machine – sewing machine and overlocker – so you don't have to hunt for them each time.
More scissors categories
Embroidery scissors and small scissors – for delicate work and cutting close to the fabric.
Tailor's shears and fabric scissors – for cutting patterns and fabrics.
Light and multi-purpose scissors – for pattern paper, crafts and household use.
Solingen scissors – German scissors – D.PERES and Kretzer, made in Germany.
Related guide: Thread snips or embroidery scissors: which suits which job
Frequently asked questions
What is a thread snip?
A small cutting tool with two blades joined by a spring. You squeeze to cut and release - and the blades open by themselves. It is intended for quick cutting of thread ends while sewing, embroidering and using an overlocker.
What is the difference between a thread snip and thread scissors?
A thread snip works with a squeeze of the palm and opens with a spring, with no finger rings - very fast for thread ends. Thread scissors are regular small scissors with finger rings, which give more exact control at the tip.
Are thread snips suitable for the left hand?
Most spring snips have no finger holes and are held the same way in both hands, so most left-handed users manage with them easily. With thread scissors that have finger holes, it is worth checking the manufacturer's specification.
Can I cut fabric with thread snips?
Only small edges or the edge of a thin fabric. The blades are short and meant for thread, and cutting thick or long fabric wears them down and does not give a clean cutting line. For fabric, use tailor's shears.
Why is it important for a snip to have a protective sheath?
The sheath protects the pointed tips from damage, prevents pricks when you reach into the sewing box, and lets you carry the snip safely in a bag.
Can thread snips replace a seam ripper?
Not exactly. You can cut a stitch here and there with them, but for taking out a whole seam, a seam ripper is faster and safer, because it glides between the layers of fabric and cuts only the thread.
Where is it best to keep the thread snips?
Next to the machine - on the table, in a small box or hanging on a holder. Anyone who works with both a sewing machine and a serger benefits from a separate snip for each machine.
How do you keep the thread snip sharp?
Cut only threads with it, close it in the sheath after use, don't drop it on the tip and occasionally wipe off dust and thread remnants stuck between the blades.
Is a thread snip also suitable for embroidery and knitting?
Yes. It is convenient for cutting embroidery thread ends, fine knitting yarns and thread remnants in handwork. For extra-thick wool yarns, small scissors with a longer blade are better.
Why do PRYM thread snips come with a cover?
The cover protects the very sharp tip and your hands, and lets you keep the scissors in a sewing box or bag without damaging the blade.