Wiss Pinking Shears Value Guide

Wiss Pinking Shears are iconic 1940-1960 era tools manufactured in Newark, New Jersey, by a company with a legacy dating back to 1848. These shears became a staple for home sewers and professional tailors due to their revolutionary ability to cut a zigzag edge that prevents fabric fraying.

What affects the value of Wiss Pinking Shears?

• Mechanical condition, specifically the sharpness of the teeth and the smoothness of the pivot screw.
• Presence of original vintage packaging or the red and white Wiss brand box.
• Overall cosmetic state, including the absence of rust on the steel or chips in the handle coating.
• Specific model variations produced between 1940 and 1960, with rarer sizes commanding higher prices.

How to Identify Wiss Pinking Shears?

• Look for the 'WISS' brand name stamped clearly into the steel blade or handle area.
• Check for the 'Newark, N.J.' or 'U.S.A.' origin marks typical of mid-century production.
• Identify the distinctive zigzag tooth pattern on the cutting edges designed for pinking.
• Note the robust construction, often featuring a combination of heavy steel blades and early plastic-coated handles.

History of Wiss Pinking Shears

Wiss, a company founded in Newark, New Jersey in 1848, became a leading manufacturer of scissors and shears. Their pinking shears were a revolutionary tool for home sewers and professional tailors, gaining popularity for their efficiency in preventing fabric edges from unraveling. Early models, like the one pictured, are known for their robust construction and lasting quality.