How to Sharpen Scissors with the Tormek SC-60 Scissors Jig

Sharp scissors make every task easier, whether you’re trimming fabric, preparing food, or opening packages. Over time, even the best scissors lose their edge. With the release of the Tormek SC-60 Scissors Jig, keeping your scissors in top condition is faster and more precise than ever. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sharpening your scissors using the SC-60.

Step 1: Mount the Scissors Securely

The SC-60 uses a two clamp system to hold scissors steady during sharpening.

• The smaller clamp secures the base of the blade.
• The larger clamp supports the tip, reducing vibration.

To mount your scissors or shears:

• Loosen both knobs on the jig.
• Place the base of the scissor blade at the scissor symbol on the jig.
• Adjust the smaller clamp to the blade thickness, then tighten the knob.
• Repeat with the larger clamp at the tip of the blade.

This design works for a wide variety of scissors, from kitchen scissors to heavy-duty hedge shears. The SC-60 isn’t recommended for wavy, serrated, or hairdressing scissors, which have unique geometries that require specialized sharpening tools.

Step 2: Set the Sharpening Angle

Most scissors are ground at around 60°, which is why the SC-60 includes a built-in 60° quick set guide.

• On the back of the jig, you’ll find two guides, one for 250 mm wheels and one for 200 mm wheels.
• Slide the support plate onto the universal support and adjust the height until the guide and support plate both make contact with the wheel.
• Lock the support in place.
• Raise the support bar with one full turn of the micro adjust so that the support plate is no longer touching the wheel.

This quick set feature makes it easy to dial in the right angle for the majority of scissors. If your scissors have a different bevel, you can either:

• Match the existing angle using a marker on the bevel, or
• Set a custom angle with the WM-200 AngleMaster.

Using the WM-200 AngleMaster:

For scissors that require a custom edge angle, the WM-200 provides precise control. Simply set the AngleMaster to your desired angle and adjust it to match your grinding wheel size. Place it against the indentation on the SC-60’s support plate and adjust the universal support until both measuring points of the AngleMaster contact properly, then lock it in place. This ensures your sharpening matches the exact angle you’ve chosen.

Step 3: Sharpen the First Blade

With your angle set, it’s time to sharpen:

• Place the jig’s holder against the support plate.
• Keep light pressure on the grinding wheel and move the scissors smoothly back and forth, following the curve of the blade.
• Keep the pressure and speed consistent to ensure an even grind across the entire bevel.
• Continue until you raise a burr along the entire edge.

The SC-60’s hexagon patterned support plate makes this step smoother than ever. The pattern reduces friction so the holder glides easily, and the channels between hexagons help keep the surface clean.

Step 4: Repeat on the Second Blade

Once the first blade is sharp:

• Loosen both clamps and remove the scissors.
• Mount the opposite blade in the jig using the same procedure.
• Sharpen as before until you raise a burr.

If needed, some scissors can be disassembled and sharpened one blade at a time. Just remember to keep the unused blade clear of the grinding wheel to avoid accidental contact.

Step 5: Remove the Burr

After sharpening both blades, you’ll need to remove the burr:

• Open the scissors fully.
• Gently press the blades apart as you close them so the edges don’t scrape each other.
• Pinch the sides of the closed blades and open them again.
• Repeat until you can no longer feel a burr.

This final step ensures your scissors cut smoothly without tearing.

Final Results

The Tormek SC-60 Scissors Jig delivers sharp, consistent edges on all kinds of household and general purpose scissors. The 60° quick set makes angle setting nearly foolproof, the dual clamp system keeps blades stable, and the friction reducing support plate makes sharpening feel smoother and more controlled.