Best Scissors

Orange handles gave a universal household tool a clear, durable form at a democratic price. Olof Bäckström’s 1967 design replaced heavy forged handles with molded plastic fitted directly around steel blades. The result is light, recognizable, and comfortable enough for repeated cutting, whether the material is paper, fabric, packaging, string, or the tag on something new.

The asymmetrical handles place thumb and fingers in separate loops, improving leverage and keeping the blades level with a work surface. Stainless steel provides a clean cutting edge and tolerates ordinary household moisture. A pivot screw allows adjustment and eventual service rather than permanently riveting the blades together. The bright orange was originally selected because leftover plastic happened to be available, then became the identity.

These are general-purpose scissors, not the tool for cutting wire, heavy cardboard, or another pair of scissors free from plastic packaging. Adhesive eventually gathers on the blades and wipes away with alcohol. The molded handle favors right-handed users, though a left-handed version exists. Kept dry and used within reason, the action remains smooth, the tips meet accurately, and the color prevents disappearance.

Few products show more clearly how industrial design can improve an ordinary object without making it expensive or complicated. Fiskars changed the material, weight, grip, and manufacturing logic, then left the successful result alone. The Classic belongs in the kitchen drawer, workroom, and desk because it is useful before it is iconic. Buy the correct handedness and give it a permanent place.