World-renowned Shozaburo Snips with Iga Braid for A Modern Look
Story
Shozaburo scissors are crafted in Tokyo with the utmost care, one pair at a time, by artisans with a commitment to excellence. These scissors are beloved by sewing enthusiasts throughout the world as being of the highest quality, cutting thread and fabric with ease. With proper maintenance, they are a treasure that lasts a lifetime.
The methods of forging Japanese Samurai swords were adapted in the Edo period (1603-1868) to craft Japanese scissors, and our maker Shozaburo & Co., Ltd. still uses these time-honored techniques as part of a long lineage of excellent craftsmanship.
The handles of Shozaburo snips are wrapped with Iga silk braids. These braids, also known as kumihimo, have been manufactured in the Iga region for over 1300 years and were traditionally used in samurai armor. The master craftsman at Matsushima Kumihimo-ten in Iga winds the silk threads by hand and weaves them into braids, bringing out their unique luster. The braids are dyed with rich colors and wound around the steel handles of the scissors.
Shozaburo Thread Snips are aesthetically pleasing and gentle on the hands, making for a delightful sewing experience.
Producing Regions
Tokyo, Mie
Producers
Snips｜Shozaburo／Tokyo
In the 1800s, Yajuro Yoshida, a sword smith, began researching the production of "Japanese scissors" using his own skills. Today, the craftsmen who inherited his skills and spirit continue to make scissors one by one with sincerity and without compromising quality.
Kumihimo｜Matsushima Kumihimo／Mie
The owner, Mr. Shunsaku Matsushima, uses his wisdom and experience as a master traditional craftsman, and is particular about making braided strings with a tasteful braid. He continues to seek the luster of silk threads and the beauty of tradition.
