Blending Shears vs. Thinning Shears

When barbers are outfitting their workstation with tools, they have one thing in mind;

making sure that they not only have the essential tools needed to complete a perfect haircut, but also additional tools that will take the clients haircut to a level that will have them coming back next time!

Barbers do not only need basic scissors and some clippers to be in their collection of tools.

 

 

They will also need an array of cutting implements that can consist of shears and trimmers.

One aspect that many barbers and hair professionals get confused with is the difference between “Thinning Shears” and “Blending Shears” when making their decisions on additional accessories to add to their area.

Here are the few we will discuss:

 

What is The Shears Purpose in Hairstyling?

 

Shears that are designed for blending and thinning, their purpose is to change the look of the hair, rather than shorten the length.

Although they are both used for this purpose, each serves a different role in the styling process.

If a client has more “bulk” in their hair, thinning shears would be suggested to be used to reduce the bulk only, without impacting and changing the style of the hair.

On the other hand, blending shears would be used if just a small amount of hair needs to be removed to help in creating a more natural transition, or not as bold of cutting lines from the first part of the hairstyling.

When the time comes to remove the interior weight of the hair, or to texturize the surface layer, blending shears are going to be the best option for you to use on your client.

 

What Makes Them Different?

 

The actual physical difference of blending and thinning shears comes down to the sharpness and arrangement of the teeth of the shears.

For blending shears, these are outfitted with one solid and straight blade that is included on “regular” scissors, but also includes a row of only “toothed-grooves.”

 

 

Thinning shears are outfitted with both sides having two blades of teeth, and no solid edge is included.

These shears are typically wider and help to remove more of the “bulk” in the hair. On the other hand, blending shears teeth are finer, and this helps not to create much difference with each cut.  Can you see the difference between these 3?

 

 

The most significant difference between the two options comes down to two main differences.

The first being that one is used to cut more hair off, and the other for less hair being removed, but having the ability to texturize and style the hair.

Blending shears have only one toothed blade, while thinners always have both sides with toothed edges.

The differences are substantial and can be the difference in how the final haircut looks once it is completed.

 

When Should You Use Each Shear?

 

After completing the cut for the client’s hair to the desired length, a barber can use thinning shears to thin the hair in whatever area you want.

It should be noted that more styling will be needed after using the thinning shears since they will not give a 100% polished effect after trimming.

Once the thinning is completed using the thinning shears, a barber would want to use the blending shears to assist in making the last touches on the hairstyle and getting the desired look and outcome for the client.

 

 

What to Avoid When Using Thinning or Blending Shears

 

There are a few tips of things to avoid when using these tools to ensure that a customer’s hair is not damaged in any way.

First, it is highly suggested that blending shears are never used higher than a ¾ inch above the tips of the hair and that when using these shears that you stay close to the bottom.

On the other hand. When the time comes to use thinning shears, you should never use them at the base of the hair near the roots and should only be used in the middle of the hair.

The most important thing to remember is never to make “large cuts” with thinning shears because too much hair is cut and wreak havoc on a customer’s hair!

 

Great Thinning and Blending Shear Options

 

Toolz by Roseline Shears Thinning Shears

 

These thinning shear scissors are an excellent choice for both value and price.

They have excellent ratings and reviews across the board, and many professional barbers swear by their ability and quality.

One of the most popular features is that they include “Removeable Finger Rests,” and include sharp German-made 28-tooth blades that are double-sided.

Although these thinning shears are an excellent choice, the lower price does mean that the comfort for more extended periods of cutting is reduced.

These are an excellent option for people that are looking to add thinning shears to their workstation, or for a barber that knows they would not be using this consistently through the day.

 

Kamisori Diamond 30 Shears Thinning Shears

 

Are you ready to add a serious tool to your workstation that will last?

These are considered the top of the line, and their following from barbers, hair stylists, and professionals all over the world agree.

Professionals agree that the quality of these Kamisory Diamond Shears, durability, and effects of their use are well worth it.

 

 

These shears have won awards over many years and include the following: American Salon Pro’s Choice, Beauty Launchpad Reader Choice, Hairdresser Journal Stylists Choice, Canadian Salon Hairdresser Favorite Tools, and Coiffure de Paris.

Many of these awards have been for multiple and consecutive years.

Hair professionals and barbers have agreed that if you buy these shears that are “sharper than a samurai sword,” you will never have to buy another pair in your lifetime.

These are perfect for advanced texturing, blending, fading, and styling. With their “superfine teeth,” they will not damage hair.

The Kamisori shears are crafted and made in Japan, and also include a 1-year drop warranty.

 

44/20 Blending Shears

 

The 44/20 blending shears are an excellent option for blending and texturizing shears.

The shears are equipped with two kinds of blades with one having 46 micro-teeth and the other a beveled edged blade.

 

 

 

These are excellent for hiding cut lines, and they do not pull, bind, or fold the hair in any way.

Although these are a cheaper option, they are great for trying out blending shears with your clients.

 

Thinning and Blending: Take your station up a notch!

 

Adding and trying new tools and methods should not cause barbers any anxiety or worry.

Although “new” can sometimes be scary, adding tools should be looked at as an exciting opportunity for you and your customers.

It also helps clients to see barbers staying up on new trends, options, and styling methods and is bound to keep them coming back time and time again.

Have some thinning shears or blending shears that are your favorite?

Want to give us your opinion on your favorite option are why? Contact us today and let us know.

We love hearing from barbers around the world on what their “go to” tools are and would like to hear from you.