Large Reenactment Scissors

Large traditional style scissors suitable for 17th to 19th century living history reenactment and historical costuming. The symmetrical finger loops provide a comfortable grip, allowing for steady, delicate cutting during embroidery or sewing tasks. These small reenactment scissors balance modern durability with design features that honour historical practicality. They serve as a reliable and effective tool for needlework enthusiasts and re-enactors seeking functional scissors reminiscent of those used in the early modern period, while recognising they are not exact period reproductions.

Key Features:

• Materials: Forged steel
• Length: Approx. 6.25″ inches
• Blade length: 2.5″ inches
• Handle size: 3″ inches
• Width: 3.25″ inches (at widest part of handle)
• Style: Based on late 17th–19th century design
• Ideal for: Re-enactors, historical costumers, traditional crafters

Historical Accuracy and Context:

Small, separate-blade scissors with a central rivet pivot appeared by the 17th century. Although spring scissors were still commonly used, pivoted scissors appear in art and artifacts in the 1600s—by mid-17th century, pivot rivets and ornate cases were already in widespread use.

These scissors prioritise function with their larger handles, however several design elements still reflect historically accurate features. The small size and pointed blades are consistent with the type of scissors used by embroiderers and seamstresses from the late 16th and 17th centuries, who required precise tools for intricate work. During the early modern period, makers increasingly produced pivoted scissors with riveted blades, therefore, similar in form to this pair. Similarly these scissors are produced from forged steel like their 17th century counterparts. which were beginning to be manufactured from carbon steel in centres such as Sheffield (England) and Solingen (Germany). Users often carried them in protective cases to preserve the sharp edges. Written evidence shows they were sometimes hung from waist belts—a popular 17th-century habit.

For earlier periods including 15th and 16th century, Viking and Saxon, it is recommended to select snips. Also known as spring scissors, these have existed since antiquity and remained widespread through the 16th century. Excavated shears showcase this durable, single-piece style.