Finding a sharpener you trust is just as important as choosing the right scissors. Use this FAQ to plan your service schedule, vet technicians, and protect warranties—whether you’re in Sydney, Cairns, or regional WA.
1. How often should I sharpen my shears?
- Dry cutting or heavy texturising: Every 3–4 months.
- Mostly wet cutting: Every 5–6 months.
- Occasional/back-up pairs: Annually, or after 300 haircuts.
Keep a log using the maintenance checklist so you never miss a service.
2. What’s the difference between on-site, mail-in, and factory sharpening?
| Type | How it works | Pros | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile/on-site | Technician visits your salon | Same-day turnaround, can sharpen multiple pairs | Vet their convex experience; confirm insurance |
| Mail-in lab | You send shears via courier | Consistent results, easy scheduling | Requires 3–7 days downtime—rotate backups |
| Factory service | Brand’s own workshop | Ideal for premium or damaged blades | Longer turnaround + higher cost |
3. How do I vet a sharpener?
- Ask which brands they’re accredited for (e.g., Hikari, Mizutani).
- Request before/after photos or references from nearby salons.
- Confirm public liability insurance.
- Check turnaround times and guarantees (redo policy, edge lifespan).
4. Will sharpening void my warranty?
Only if you use unauthorised technicians. Keep receipts and service reports, especially for premium brands covered in our stockist guides.
5. Should I sharpen brand-new shears?
No. New shears arrive service-ready. Focus on cleaning, oiling, and tension adjustments for the first few months.
6. What if my shears pull or fold hair right after sharpening?
Stop using them, document the issue, and contact the technician within 48 hours. Reputable sharpeners will inspect and, if needed, redo the edge free of charge.
7. How do I pack shears for mail-in services?
- Clean and dry thoroughly.
- Wrap each blade in soft cloth or bubble wrap.
- Guard tips with rubber protectors.
- Place in a rigid case, then inside an Express satchel with signature on delivery.
- Include your contact details and edge instructions.
8. Can all sharpeners handle left-handed or swivel shears?
No. Always confirm they service true left-handed blades and swivel assemblies. Our upcoming left-handed guide will list approved technicians; for now, stick to the specialists noted in city directories.
9. How many sharpenings can my scissors handle?
High-quality convex shears withstand 15–25 services when maintained properly. Budget bevel shears average 8–12 before the edge profile changes significantly.
10. Do I need different sharpeners for thinners or texturisers?
Many technicians service them alongside standard shears, but confirm tooth count and brand. Misaligned teeth ruin blending lines—reference photos help technicians match original spacing.
11. How do I schedule around peak seasons?
- Use our city guides to check event calendars.
- Book sharpeners 4–6 weeks before known spikes (wedding season, Christmas, festival periods).
- Rotate backups during the busy month to keep premium pairs fresh for top-tier clients.
12. What if I work regionally?
Mail-in labs (, Edge Pro) are your best friend. Bundle multiple pairs with colleagues to save on freight, and plan a “maintenance week” each quarter.
Ready to create a sharpening plan?
- Browse the national stockist hub for technician recommendations in your city.
- Print the 5-minute maintenance checklist to keep edges alive between services.
- Still unsure who to trust? Message us via the contact page with your city, brands, and workload—we’ll point you to vetted technicians and book the first slot.
Stay consistent, keep records, and your shears will repay you with years of razor-sharp service.