pinking shears

American  

noun

(usually used with a plural verb)

1. shears that have notched blades, for cutting and simultaneously pinking fabric or for finishing garments with a notched, nonfraying edge.

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pinking shears British  

plural noun

1. scissors with a serrated edge on one or both blades, producing a wavy edge to material cut, thus preventing fraying

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Etymology

Origin of pinking shears

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

If you don’t sew, don’t worry, she says, “you can cut them with pinking shears or use no-sew iron-on tape.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2024

“Another girl lived to be about 16, and I made it. So you’re looking at the luckiest guy in the world. In 1951, they operated on people with pinking shears and screwdrivers.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2023

I embrace the Girl Scouts mom who carries pinking shears in her purse.

From New York Times • Sep. 20, 2019

But before you start reaching for your pinking shears, there are some techniques and tools that can be used to aid his hang time.

From Slate • Jul. 22, 2019

My embroidery hoops and a pair of pinking shears in an oilcloth sheath hung around my neck, threatening myself and others in the push and shove.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver