Saturday, 5 October 2013

The Charm Of Eiffel Tower Scissors

By Angel Dudley


Eiffel Tower scissors have an undeniable appeal. The design plays cleverly on the similarity between the well known landmark and the shape of a hand held tool used for cutting. This item not only has a sense of history but its construction elevates it beyond the level of just another novelty. It is not only beautiful to look at but fully functional as well.

Collectors and seamstresses both desire these items. Seamstresses love the fine, sharp blades that offer precision and the shape of handles that fit comfortably in the hand. Collectors enjoy the intricate grid patterns, closely resembling the lattice structure found on the famous Parisian landmark.

The Paris landmark was originally built in 1889 as the entrance to the World Fair. Since then it has become one of the most famous and most visited structures in the world. It was at this time that Jacques-Simon Sajou, owner of a French haberdashery company, won a silver medal and had a commemorative pair of scissors made. However, this design did not fade into obscurity and has now been revived to be appreciated once again.

Scissors are thought to have been invented by the ancient Egyptians. At this time a single bronze shape was used. Cross-bladed ones were only introduced later by the Romans. The first cast steel items were produced much later and as the techniques used for construction improved, so the innovative talents of the makers began to emerge. This everyday item is very much part of our lives today but special pairs are still appreciated and sought after by many individuals.

Carbon steel is used to make these items today, with the blade and the handle forming one continuous piece. Carbon steel is manufactured from iron and a small percentage of carbon. It is strong and stays sharp. However, it does rust and so needs to be plated with another metal. Stainless steel is also used as it has the advantages of being rustproof and light. A stainless steel blade with often be fitted with a plastic handle.

Items manufactured in France in the tradition of the house of Sajou are made by craftsmen who mostly come from a family of scissor makers. Care is taken throughout the process and each pair is made by a dozen skilled artisans from start to finish. Many different operations are involved in their production, most of them by hand. Pairing marks on the blades are proof of how finely they have been adjusted.

Many of these items are found in online shops and the prices vary considerably. Authentic French items with the Sajou brand mark are obviously the most expensive due to their quality. For example, an exquisite pair used for embroidery is on offer. Be careful when buying online of copies that are cheaply made and have little value.

Eiffel tower scissors are not only desirable for their unique design but for their functionality too. Such an item can make a wonderful gift for someone who loves doing fine needlework. A quality item can even be passed down from mother to daughter, to be appreciated by future generations.




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