Ernest Wright Scissors Buying Guide

For over a century, Ernest Wright scissors have been synonymous with craftsmanship from the historic city of Sheffield. Every pair of scissors produced by this venerable factory in the "Steel City" tells a story. In this guide, we introduce the individual models and show you which one is right for your needs.

Why Ernest Wright scissors are unique

Ernest Wright scissors are more than just a cutting tool—they're a masterpiece of blacksmithing. Premium materials , a sophisticated, ergonomic design, and meticulous manufacturing processes make these scissors so special.

Each pair of scissors undergoes a complex manufacturing process: from drop-forging the glowing raw steel to hand -grinding the blades and careful hand-aligning and adjustment. This traditional manufacturing process in Sheffield means that each pair of scissors receives the time and care it needs to be perfect.

The craftsmanship of the employees is key. Many work steps are performed by hand by experienced specialists – also known in Sheffield as "master putters." They ensure that the scissors blades fit together precisely and run with optimal tension. Furthermore, only high-quality steels are used, which are available either as carbon-containing tool steel or as specially alloyed, rust-proof stainless steel – depending on the model and intended use. Through hardening and hand-honing, the cutting edge stays sharp longer and can be resharpened as needed, meaning that a pair of Ernest Wright scissors often becomes a lifelong companion.

In autumn 2024, the Iconic Tools team visited the factory in Sheffield. If you want to learn more about the production of the scissors, you can read about it in our travel report .

The high-quality scissors in detail – Find your perfect model

Ernest Wright's range includes the ideal pair of scissors for almost every application. Each model has its own strengths and advantages, whether in terms of material, shape, or size. Learn more about the special features of the following models and find out which scissors best meet your personal cutting needs:

Kutrite kitchen scissors

The Kutrite kitchen shears are a true legend among kitchen shears and are now celebrating a comeback. Originally designed by Philip Wright in the 1960s, they were an indispensable kitchen tool until the 1980s. Their shape combines clean lines with functional curves. The serrated blades, made of drop-forged, hygienic stainless steel, effortlessly cut through meat, vegetables, and everything else your kitchen needs. They also feature integrated extras: a bottle opener, a twist-top opener, and even a nutcracker, conveniently built into the handle and body of the shears.

This makes the Kutrite a multi-talent for the kitchen , combining cutting, opening, and cracking in a single tool. These kitchen scissors stay sharp for years and are resistant to moisture—perfect for frequent use in everyday kitchen life. They are delivered in a stylish wooden presentation box with a certificate of authenticity.

Paper Hanger Paper Scissors

The Paper Hanger paper scissors are the tool of choice when it comes to large format paper, cardboard, or wallpaper. These scissors owe their name to the traditional wallpaper hangers, who used them to make long, straight cuts. This is possible with an impressive total length of 30 cm.

This means you can cut wide strips of wallpaper or large sheets of paper in one go without having to restart, resulting in particularly even cut edges. Thanks to their weight and sharp blades, the Paper Hanger paper scissors glide effortlessly through even thicker paper, cardboard, or foil. High precision and control are supported by the generous handles, which ensure a secure grip, even when strength is required. These scissors are made of high-quality carbon steel and carefully sharpened, which means they cleanly separate even the finest paper fibers instead of tearing them. The Paper Hanger is an indispensable tool for crafters and wallpaper makers: whether for cutting scrapbooking materials, shortening rolls of wrapping paper, or professionally hanging wallpaper. Despite its size, its sophisticated balance means it sits comfortably in the hand and allows for precise cuts on edges or recesses.

Hardened Industrial Shears Industrial scissors

When it really comes down to it and ordinary scissors give up, Ernest Wright's Hardened Industrial Shears come into play. These hardened industrial shears are specially designed for demanding cutting work in trades, workshops, and industry. With their impressive size of 30 cm overall length, a blade length of approximately 16 cm, and a heavier weight, they immediately convey a feeling of power and stability. The long, fully forged blades are specially hardened, which gives them enormous cutting strength and durability. This allows these scissors to cut effortlessly through technical textiles, robust fabrics, leather, rubber, carpets, and multi-layered materials.

Even thick cardboard, plastic strapping, or thinner sheet metal are no obstacle for these industrial shears. The blades still mesh precisely, allowing even finer cuts to be made with control without damaging the material. A hand-polished finish reduces friction and protects against corrosion. As a special extra, the Hardened Industrial Shears come with an elegant suede sheath.

General purpose all-purpose scissors

The General Purpose Scissors from Ernest Wright are the all-rounders we can't live without in our home or hobby room. These all-purpose scissors are just under 17 cm long, sharp, and amazingly robust—perfect for everyday cutting tasks at home.

The medium-sized, tapered blades are ideal for both delicate and rough tasks. From cutting paper, cardboard, or packing tape to opening packages and shortening fabric, ribbons, or threads—the General Purpose can handle it all.

This makes it equally suitable for hobbyists, office workers, or household users looking for a single pair of scissors for (almost) everything. In short: This universal cutting aid is always at hand when something needs cutting in everyday life, bringing the long-lasting quality of Ernest Wright to every household.

Dressmaker tailor's scissors

The Dressmaker Tailor's Scissors are the tool that master tailors and hobbyists alike dream of. These scissors have a total length of 21 cm and are indispensable for neatly cutting all types of fabrics: from fine silk and soft jersey to sturdy denim and multi-layered felt. Their sharp, long blades ensure that fabrics are cut with extreme precision and straightness without crushing or fraying the fibers. Even demanding materials such as multi-layered rubber, carpeting, or leather are manageable.

The precise interplay of the blades (sidebent design) allows the lower blade to rest flat on the table and prevent the fabric from being lifted during cutting, ensuring the cut remains perfectly in shape. The Dressmaker is balanced and relatively lightweight for its size. Ergonomically shaped grip holes comfortably fit your thumb and fingers. We offer this model for both right- and left-handed users.

Antique Stork Embroidery Scissors

The Antique Stork embroidery scissors are arguably the most iconic model from Ernest Wright and have been loved for decades for their playful shape and amazing precision.

The small and delicate stork scissors owe their special design to a centuries-old tradition: Originally, metal storks were used by midwives in the 19th century as clamps for cutting the umbilical cord.

This later evolved into the fine stork-shaped embroidery scissors – a symbol of good luck and new life, perfectly suited to the world of needlework. The Antique Stork Scissors capture this history and combine it with modern cutting performance. Crafted from perfectly crafted carbon steel half-shells, the handle and blade are made from a single piece.

The Stork scissors offer a stability and sharpness you'd hardly expect from such a small pair of scissors. Their finely tapered blades allow for precise cutting in delicate work: cutting threads, neatly separating embroidery thread, snipping open buttonholes, or trimming appliqués – the Stork scissors handle all of this with ease. Thanks to the slender tips, you can reach close to seams to cut threads flush without damaging the fabric. Because Ernest Wright uses robust carbon steel, the scissors stay sharp for a long time and are slightly heavier and more solid than many comparable stainless steel embroidery scissors.

The Antique Stork also makes a great gift!

Turton kitchen scissors

The Turton kitchen shears are a piece of British kitchen tradition and are among the most famous models from Sheffield. Originally designed by Frank Turton, they have been used in millions of households over the decades. Today, they are continued by Ernest Wright, thus preserving an important legacy of scissor design. Like their sister model, the Kutrite, the Turton shears are characterized by their great versatility in the kitchen. They are drop-forged from hardened, rust-proof stainless steel.

Its blades are finely serrated on one side to securely grip and cut tough or smooth materials. Whether you need to cut raw meat, poultry, vegetables, herbs, or even packaging material, the Turton is ready.

Another clever feature is hidden between the handle eyes: a nutcracker for walnuts or hazelnuts, and the upper handle has a bottle opener and a cap lifter for screw caps.

At approximately 18 cm in length, it fits comfortably in the hand—not too large, but powerful enough for heavy-duty tasks. Of course, this model is also available from Ernest Wright for both right- and left-handed users.

Conclusion

We at Iconic Tools are proud to offer you these exceptional products and hope this buying guide has helped you find the right Ernest Wright scissors for you. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us! We usually respond within a few hours.