1.7 Proper handling of sewing tools and equipment

Safety measures have to be taken seriously especially when sharp pointed objects are used such as scissors, tacking pins, needles, and other equipment.

Safe Storage Of Equipment

Keep all sharp tools and equipment stored in a safe space. Adapt drawers, special cupboard sections, boxes, or anything to keep hazardous items secure from somebody else’s use.

Sharp items, like scissors, rotary cutters, needles, pins, safety pins, and so on, should be stored in a lockable area, especially if you have kids, pets, or other family members who could be at risk. Treat your fabric shears with great respect and never cut anything other than fabric or textile material with them. Always use a different pair of scissors to cut paper or cards.

Dispose of all sharp needles and pins in a special jar that you can hand over for discharge at your local pharmacy or sewing supplies shop.

Care for Cutting Tools

• Buy quality scissors in any variety you need

• Keep tools dry and clean

• Only cut designated materials with their respective tool

• Avoid pins and zippers when using cutting tools to prevent damage

• Don’t drop or hit shears—This can cause damage

• Buy a sharpening tool to keep cutting tools in tip-top condition

• Keep small tools in organized compartments where they are safe and easy to find

• Invest in quality tools like metal shears

• Avoid cutting fabric using just the tip of the scissors to avoid misalignment and to create sharp, precise cuts

• Wipe off cutting tools with a soft cloth to remove fuzz or threads.