Guide to Scissor Haircutting Techniques

Gone are the days when getting a haircut meant simple trims and straight cuts. Nowadays, barbers have elevated the art of haircutting to a whole new level with a variety of scissor cutting techniques. Whether you're a professional barber or someone looking to learn more about the world of barbering, this guide will take you through some of the most popular scissor haircutting techniques that can transform any hairstyle.

1. Point Cutting

Point cutting is a technique that involves using the tips of the scissors to create texture and soften the edges of the hair. This technique is perfect for achieving a more natural and lived-in look. Instead of creating a blunt, straight line, point cutting adds movement and dimension to the hair. It's especially effective for thick hair or when creating layers.

2. Slide Cutting

Slide cutting is a technique that involves sliding the scissors down the hair shaft while cutting. This technique helps to remove bulk and create seamless layers. It's a great technique for adding texture and movement to the hair without sacrificing length. Slide cutting is often used to create soft, blended, and textured looks, making it a favorite among barbers.

3. Scissor Over Comb

Scissor over comb is a classic barbering technique that involves using a comb and scissors simultaneously. The comb is used to lift the hair, while the scissors are used to cut it. This technique is versatile and can be used for various hair lengths and textures. Scissor over comb allows for precise control, making it perfect for creating clean, well-structured cuts.

4. Feathering

Feathering is a technique that involves using the scissors to create soft layers and texture. It's often used to add movement and volume to the hair, especially in longer styles. Feathering is achieved by lightly closing and opening the scissors while cutting, which creates feathery ends. This technique is great for achieving a natural and effortless look.

5. Twisting Shears

Twisting shears, also known as texturizing shears, are scissors with teeth or notches on one or both blades. These shears are used to remove weight and create texture in the hair. The twisting motion of the shears helps to blend the hair and create a softer, more natural look. Twisting shears are particularly useful for thick hair or when creating choppy and layered styles.

6. Slithering

Slithering is a technique that involves gently sliding the scissors down the hair shaft without fully closing them. This technique helps to remove bulk and add movement to the hair. Slithering is commonly used to create soft layers in longer styles or to add texture and volume to shorter styles. It's an excellent technique for achieving a natural and undone look.

7. Notching

Notching is a technique that involves creating small, V-shaped cuts in the hair using the scissors. These cuts help to remove bulk and create texture. Notching is often used to create a choppy and edgy look, especially in shorter hairstyles. It's a technique that requires precision and attention to detail to achieve the desired effect.

8. Line Haircutting

Line haircutting, also known as blunt cutting, involves creating a clean and straight line using the scissors. This technique is often used for creating bobs or blunt cuts, where precision and symmetry are key. Line haircutting requires a steady hand and an eye for detail to ensure a flawless finish.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of scissor haircutting opens up a world of possibilities for barbers and hairstylists. Each technique mentioned in this guide has its own unique effect and purpose, allowing you to create a wide range of hairstyles for your clients. Whether you're looking to add texture, remove bulk, or create movement, these scissor haircutting techniques will help you achieve the desired result. Don't be afraid to experiment and practice these techniques to refine your skills and take your haircutting game to the next level.

Guide to Scissor Haircutting Techniques

Gone are the days when getting a haircut meant simple trims and straight cuts. Nowadays, barbers have elevated the art of haircutting to a whole new level with a variety of scissor cutting techniques. In the first part of this guide, we explored some popular scissor haircutting techniques such as point cutting, slide cutting, scissor over comb, feathering, twisting shears, slithering, notching, and line haircutting. In this second part, we will dive deeper into some advanced scissor haircutting techniques that can help you take your skills to the next level and create stunning hairstyles for your clients.

9. Crosshatching

Crosshatching is a technique that involves creating multiple cuts in a crisscross pattern. This technique is commonly used to add texture and movement to the hair, especially in shorter styles. It's achieved by making small, diagonal cuts with the scissors, creating a unique and edgy look. Crosshatching can be used to remove bulk and create choppy layers, giving the hair a modern and stylish appearance.

10. Point Filtration

Point filtration is a technique that involves selectively removing unwanted weight and bulk from the hair. It's achieved by making tiny, precise cuts at specific points in the hair. This technique requires a keen eye and precision to identify the areas that need to be filtered and make the right cuts. Point filtration is great for creating layered and textured looks, and it can also be used to add volume and movement to the hair.

11. Pivoting

Pivoting is a technique that involves rotating the scissors while cutting to create angled or layered sections of hair. This technique is often used to create graduated or stacked cuts, where the hair is cut at different lengths to create volume and movement. Pivoting requires skill and control to ensure smooth transitions between the different sections of hair. It's a technique that can add depth and dimension to the hair, creating a dynamic and modern look.

12. Weaving

Weaving is a technique that involves using the scissors to create intricate patterns or designs in the hair. It's often used for creating unique and artistic looks, especially for special occasions or events. Weaving can be done by making small, controlled cuts in specific sections of the hair, creating a woven effect. This technique requires creativity and precision to achieve the desired design. Weaving is a great way to showcase your skills and offer something truly special to your clients.

13. Slide Cutting with Texturizing Shears

Slide cutting with texturizing shears is a variation of slide cutting that involves using texturizing shears instead of regular scissors. Texturizing shears have teeth or notches on one or both blades, allowing for more controlled and precise cutting. This technique is great for adding texture and movement to the hair, especially in longer styles. By using texturizing shears, you can achieve a softer and more blended look, creating natural-looking layers and a seamless finish.

14. Reverse Cutting

Reverse cutting is a technique that involves cutting the hair in the opposite direction of its natural growth. This technique is commonly used to remove weight and add texture to the hair. By cutting the hair in the reverse direction, you can create a more lived-in and effortless look. Reverse cutting is particularly useful for thick and heavy hair, as it helps to lighten the weight and create a more manageable style. It's a technique that requires skill and control to achieve the desired effect without compromising the overall shape of the haircut.

15. Slicing

Slicing is a technique that involves gliding the scissors through the hair without fully closing them. This creates subtle and seamless layers, adding texture and movement to the hair. Slicing is often used to soften the edges of the hair and create a more natural and blended look. It's a technique that requires a light touch and control to achieve the desired effect without removing too much length or creating choppy layers. Slicing can be used in combination with other techniques to create a customized haircut that suits your client's individual needs and preferences.

16. Channel Cutting

Channel cutting is a technique that involves cutting channels or channels in the hair at different lengths. This creates a multi-dimensional effect and adds depth and texture to the hair. Channel cutting is commonly used to create movement and volume in the hair, especially in longer styles. It's a technique that can be customized to suit different hair types and textures, allowing you to create unique and personalized looks for your clients. Channel cutting requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that the channels are cut at the right lengths and angles.

Conclusion

Scissor haircutting is an art form that allows barbers and hairstylists to create stunning hairstyles for their clients. In this guide, we explored a wide range of scissor haircutting techniques, from the basic to the advanced. Each technique has its own unique effect and purpose, allowing you to achieve different styles and looks. By mastering these techniques and practicing them regularly, you can refine your skills and take your haircutting game to the next level. Don't be afraid to experiment and get creative with your scissor cutting techniques. The possibilities are endless, and with each new technique you learn, you open up new opportunities to create amazing hairstyles that will leave your clients looking and feeling their best. So grab your scissors, get practicing, and become a master of scissor haircutting!