Wednesday, October 2, 2013

The Appeal Of Eiffel Tower Scissors

By Angel Dudley


The idea for the design of the original pair of Eiffel Tower scissors came from observing the similarity in shape between the landmark in Paris and the object used for cutting. However, such an item goes way beyond a fun novelty souvenir that is soon relegated to a bottom drawer. The quality of items produced using this design offer a perfect combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal, giving them long lasting value.

The beauty of this item appeals to collectors and seamstresses alike. The grid pattern has a finesse resembling the lattice structure of the tower. The handles are unique too. It is no surprise that this item is as chic as the monument that inspired it.

The Paris landmark was originally built in 1889 as the entrance to the World Fair. Since then it has become one of the most famous and most visited structures in the world. It was at this time that Jacques-Simon Sajou, owner of a French haberdashery company, won a silver medal and had a commemorative pair of scissors made. However, this design did not fade into obscurity and has now been revived to be appreciated once again.

The first scissors were thought to originate in ancient Egypt but it was in Roman times that cross-blades were introduced. Many years later the first cast steel blades were produced. Production techniques improved through the ages and today these items are found in every household, being used for many different tasks. The most well made and creatively designed items are still sought after and desired by collectors and others who value quality.

A compound of iron and carbon is used to make the blades today. This compound helps to make sure that blades remain sharp but unfortunately does not prevent rusting. For this reason, blades are plated with metals like silver or gold. If stainless steel is used, rusting does not occur and a pair made of this material is also lighter in weight. An antique bronze finish is also popular today because of its vintage appearance.

Items manufactured in France in the tradition of the house of Sajou are made by craftsmen who mostly come from a family of scissor makers. Care is taken throughout the process and each pair is made by a dozen skilled artisans from start to finish. Many different operations are involved in their production, most of them by hand. Pairing marks on the blades are proof of how finely they have been adjusted.

The price of an item varies considerably according to where it is made and the materials used for making it. For example, those made by Le Maison Sajou, such as a pair for embroidery sold with an Eiffel tower charm and a pompom, is a re-issue of the 19th century model. All these items are marked with the brand name Sajou to avoid copies.

Eiffel Tower scissors offer a sense of history in an unforgettable design. Such a pair makes a perfect gift for a seamstress to add to a sewing basket. Collectors appreciate quality items with their delicate, uniqueness and they may even be handed down through generations.




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