Wednesday, October 2, 2013

The Appeal Of Eiffel Tower Scissors

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.



It has sharp pointed blades, a grid pattern resembling the metallic lattice work found on the tower and unique handles. It is a worthy interpretation of the landmark from which it gains its inspiration. Not only does the unique nature of the design make such a pair desirable as a collectible but seamstresses drool over possessing one of these items for their precision work.



The structure of this Parisian landmark was an engineering innovation and one cannot imagine Paris without it. It was built for the World Exhibition in 1889, held in celebration of the French Revolution and still dominates the skyline. A pair of scissors was made in honor of this event at the request Jacques-Simon Sajou who owned a company selling haberdashery. He won a silver medal at the time and continued to win medals in subsequent years. Today people are buying items of this design once again, delighting in its uniqueness.



Scissors are thought to have been invented by the ancient Egyptians. At this time a single bronze shape was used. Cross-bladed ones were only introduced later by the Romans. The first cast steel items were produced much later and as the techniques used for construction improved, so the innovative talents of the makers began to emerge. This everyday item is very much part of our lives today but special pairs are still appreciated and sought after by many individuals.



Carbon steel is used to make these items today, with the blade and the handle forming one continuous piece. Carbon steel is manufactured from iron and a small percentage of carbon. It is strong and stays sharp. However, it does rust and so needs to be plated with another metal. Stainless steel is also used as it has the advantages of being rustproof and light. A stainless steel blade with often be fitted with a plastic handle.



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.



If purchasing from online stores, it is an easy task to compare prices of items. Quality items are more expensive due to the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating them. There are cheaper items available too but most of these have no value as collectibles. A good quality pair closes and opens easily and precisely, stays sharp for longer, lasts for years and is a pleasure to use.



A quality pair of Eiffel Tower scissors can be handed down from generation to generation. Such an item can make a perfect addition to a home sewing basket or a creative gift for a budding fashion designer. It carries with it a sense of history and the exquisite design is unforgettable.









About the Author:








#end



The Appeal Of Eiffel Tower Scissors



Article Source: http://myblogi.tumblr.com/post/62891482145

No comments:

Post a Comment