In previous articles, we've looked at sewing tools and sewing machines, with one of the main questions being “how much should you spend?” Will buying an expensive machine make you a better sewer or get you better results? Or should you just go with the best machine your budget allows? I'm a frugal kinda gal and for the longest time I stick with my budget Brother machine, but that doesn't mean I might not want to upgrade some of the other more modest sewing tools in my collection. Today we'll look at whether or not you should invest in a high-quality or budget brass seam ripper.
Seam rippers
As much as we don't want to need one, a seam ripper often gets used more than we would like and is a very necessary sewing tool. I've always been ok with the budget models, but then I realised that in about 3 years of sewing, I've now collected about 6-8 seam rippers, and not one of them is any good any more.
You can see here, I even started buying in bulk and bought all of those 4 blue ones at one time when I realized they just didn't stay sharp for very long.
They probably didn't start out too sharp anyway, but now all but one is useless and the one I do use really needs to be replaced. It's just not sharp enough. I made a big mistake trying to install a magnetic snap. The seam ripper pieced OK, but then when I pushed it forward to make the little incision to insert the snap, it didn't cut. So I pushed it a little harder. Nothing. So I gave it a bigger push and oh darn, it slid about twice as far as I needed it to and made a big cut in the front of my bag 🙁
Time for a new seam ripper. Actually, I wasn't disappointed because I've had my eye on a very special one – the gold star of seam rippers and one to last a lifetime. I figured in 3 years I had spent the same on all those cheap ones that I would have spent on a single good one. This is it – I have it on order from Amazon. A brass seam ripper. I understand it has a lifetime guarantee, and if you need a new blade, you can send it back to the manufacturer and they will replace it just for the cost of the postage.
Check out the Brass Seam Ripper on Amazon USA or AMAZON UK
This is the video that convinced me that I needed one. Look how smoothly this goes through with such little effort. I've never owned a seam ripper that cuts even half as well as that, even when brand new. I'm 100% sold that investing in a good quality seam ripper is better in the long term than all the cheap ones. It's on order 🙂
Mine has to arrive with a friend from overseas so I won't have it for a while yet but I'll tell you more about it once it arrives. I've a feeling I could do some real damage with this tool, and actually might make ‘mistakes' just so I could have the pleasure of using it.
Anyone else got one? Hoping you'll tell me it's as awesome as I'm hoping for.
Quality Vs. Budget Tools (There's A Place For Both)
As an avid sewist, one of the pivotal decisions you have to make is about the equipment you use. This can make or break your sewing journey. The choice usually comes down to investing in high-quality sewing machines, tools, and materials versus sticking to a tight budget. Here, we will outline the pros and cons of each to help you make a more informed decision.
High-Quality Equipment
Pros
- Durability and Longevity: Higher-end sewing machines are typically built to last. They often feature sturdy metal components that can stand the test of time. The upfront investment can save you money in the long run because you won't have to frequently replace parts or the entire machine.
- Better Performance: High-quality machines usually offer smoother operation, higher sewing speed, and better stitch quality. They also handle different fabric types and thicknesses better, with less risk of skipped stitches or fabric bunching.
- Advanced Features: Higher-end machines come with advanced features, such as a greater variety of stitches, automatic thread cutter, buttonhole capabilities, embroidery functions, etc. These features can significantly enhance your sewing experience and capabilities.
- Lower Operating Noise: Premium machines often operate more quietly than their budget counterparts, which is a significant advantage if you sew frequently or for extended periods.
Cons
- Cost: The most apparent downside is the initial cost. High-quality sewing machines can be quite expensive, which might be prohibitive for some home sewists.
- Complexity: With more features and capabilities comes more complexity. It can take time to learn how to use all the functions of a high-end machine, potentially delaying projects for beginners.
Budget Equipment
Pros
- Affordability: Budget sewing machines are more accessible for beginners or those who sew infrequently. They're an excellent option for people who aren't ready to invest heavily in a new hobby or craft.
- Simplicity: Less expensive models tend to be simpler and more straightforward to use, with fewer features and functions to master. This simplicity can be a boon for beginners.
Cons
- Limited Features: Budget machines often offer only basic stitches and functions, limiting the range of projects you can tackle.
- Durability Issues: Less expensive machines are more prone to wear and tear due to their plastic components and are generally not designed for heavy use. You may find yourself replacing parts or the entire machine more frequently.
- Performance Limitations: Budget machines may not handle thick fabrics or multiple layers as effectively, which can limit your sewing options. They may also be louder or less smooth in operation.
I have been sewing for years and have made my share of mistake and had to take out many a stitch. This is by far the BEST seam ripper on the market!! Fast and easy to use!! I love it!! Havel’s Ultra Pro Seam Ripper
I’ve never used the brass seam rippers. What disappoints me about most seam rippers is that if the point is tiny, so is the handle, and if the handle is large enough to be comfortable, the point is huge. As far as staying sharp, I sometimes use a fish hook sharpener or small needle file to put an edge back on them.
Great Tip, Thanks!
I am very partial to a French seam ripper from Decouvit. They are a little expensive but very sharp and last longer than others I have tried.
Never heard of it, but thanks for the tip. I will look into it.
I got one and it was DOA. Dull on arrival. Very disappointed.
Based on the strength of so many people liking this brass seam ripper I got one. Used it for a couple weeks, then dropped it on the floor (linoleum over wood) and the handle snapped off. The price you pay for shipping & handling to send it back replacement is enough to buy 1 or even 2 Clover rippers with larger handles which are more comfortable for my arthritic fingers. For me, it was wasted money; for someone else the joy of a beautiful tool might be worth it. Just be careful not to drop it!
You got me at …your Jr High school seam ripper! LOL And I still have every one of the junky ones I bought as well!
It is not the brass that does the cutting.
Less plastic is good, but it is the stainless steel that cuts and the small plastic ball that protects the material.
The brass may give you a luxury feeling, that is all. Do not expect a miracle from it. There is no need to buy expensive tools, just choose good tools and use them the right way.
I use a model different from those shown here. A good sharp steel knife, the same as connected to the brass one in the video. I have always learned to make good use of the little plastic ball.
Can’t get this in Australia 🙁
Does Amazon not ship to Oz?
Not sure if the Quilt in a Day brass seam ripper is the same quality as the Nifty Notions brand but I couldn’t resist the reviews and it was covered with Prime. I don’t think it comes with the warranty but I guess I feel lucky. I would love a seam ripper that has a finer point so I don’t destroy my fabric trying to pick a stitch getting started.
I have the brass seam ripper and absolutely love it. My only problem is that it tends to roll away on my table but I’ll deal with that since it fits in my hand beautifully and makes seam ripping so much easier! It also made cutting out my button holes less stressful as I didn’t need to apply as much pressure and didn’t worry about it slipping.
The little loops at the top are made to turn it into a chatelaine. They are decorative items that you attach the darling brass ripper, stiletto, scissors, needle case and other accessories. Chatelaines from the past
I’ve tried Chatelaines before because I love the history of them and the concept but I just don’t like anything hanging on my neck. Thanks for the tip, though.
I think my next seam ripper will be a scalpel with replaceable blades.
My daughter has the scalpel kind and it flows like butter through the stitches. I am ordering one,
Yes!! I’ve never understood why they don’t make rippers that can be SHARPENED!!
Yes! What you said is absolutely true. I did break my brass tip and I sent it in for a replacement, just as you said. I do love my brass seam ripper.
We were taught to use the sharp point to ripe with. WRONG This demo proves not all old ways were the best way to do something. I would like to know why all those instructors never told use to put the ball under the seam.? ? ?
Good for reducing plastic waste too!
I’ve had a brass ripper for about 4 years now. It’s starting to dull. It gets used A LOT.
Who would have thought a tool costing under $15 could make me so happy? There is no comparison to the other seam rippers I’ve used over the years. It it very sturdy and feels good in the hand as well. Thank you for the recommendation!
I’ve only just read this about the brass seam ripper. I am definitely going to purchase one. As this was three years ago, I wonder how you are getting on with yours? I have, like most of the readers here, a collection of less than good seam rippers. I make and sell zippered cushion inserts and covers, so I use a seam ripper a lot. The worst experience I’ve had was when I bought a new one – a Birch one, to replace one I’ve had for some years, and the new one was blunter than the old one! Not happy! Since then, I’ve been searching for something exactly like this, so it seams (pun intended) my search is over!
I have one and I love it .simply skims through the seam and with no effort ,I didn`t get mine discounted or special offer but paid over £40 for it but I reckon it will outlast me and my sewing.
THis is absolutely the best seam ripper ever devised. I picked one up many years ago at a Singer store in Anaheim, California with great trepidation at the then cost of $12.00. As I do a lot of alterations for people. removing stitching is extensive. This seam ripper has never let me down. It has dulled a wee bit, and I am going to order another one or two to have on hand when I am working with others so they will have one to use as well. I am also going to investigate the possibility of getting replacement heads and the tool to use them. Well worth every penny.
Hi Susan, thanks for the feedback. I’m sure other readers will find it very helpful. Kind regards and happy sewing!
I am curious if the manufacturer would supply the device with spare blades.
its a bit of a stretch from Australia to be returning them to California.
I would love one of these, if they are as good as you say.
When i was a young woman, my tailoress Aunty taught me how to take seams out. But sometimes you need to rip…
HI, Chris, this is an old post (2015) you would have to contact them directly to find out what are their return policy.
There is a scissor that has a curved blade side that holds a snippet of thread so when you close it, only what’s inside it gets cut. Not sure what it’s called. It’s sharpened like a regular scissor so it lasts forever. I’ve had it over 20 years. I know it was around $30
It sounds like you are describing a suture scissor. It comes from the medical field. We use them quite often, especially after surgery. The side with the curve slips under the suture ( commonly called stitches ) against the skin.
I have never even seen the brass one but I am going to get one!! (or two). I have a whole collection of (dull) seam rippers too (which is good- I tend to misplace them…and seam gauges.
Me too 🙁
I bought a Nifty Notions brass seam ripper and I love it. I cannot find the address where to send it when I need a replacement blade. Do you have it and would you please share it. Thank you.
I do not believe in the mythical stay-sharp-forever ripping tool. I have found over many years that the Clover version with the brown handle is the best. When it is blunt, it is blunt and nothing is going to change that.
And as for cutting buttonholes, never use a seam ripper but always a special chisel used only for this purpose. My woodworking husband made one for me from scratch including the blade complete with the block to go underneath.
Yes, I bought one a while ago, even though the price of shipping to Australia made it a very extravagant purchase. I love it! It is much sharper than the cheapies and slides through those stitches like a hot knife through butter. But be careful, it will slice fabric just as easily!!
I have 16 dresses to replace zippers in you can come help :-).
Oh good gracious! That’s a lot of unpicking to do. You’ll need a good light, a lot of patience and a good ripper for all those.
I know where you’re coming from Karen, I am about 90% finished a memory quilt and it inspired me to dig deep and buy a few more expensive seam rippers. SO much work to rip apart a bunch of clothing.
I never use a seam ripper to open a buttonhole. My grandmother gave me a fancy buttonhole chisel (like @Sue mentioned) about 40 years ago and it still works well because it can be sharpened. The only time I don’t use it is when my buttonhole is less than a half-inch long (the width of my chisel). Then I use embroidery scissors (thin and sharp). I don’t use a seam ripper for the very reason Deby mentioned – it’s likely to cut beyond the buttonhole, and if you place a pin to stop it and your hand slips, you’ve ruined the seam ripper (like hitting a pin with your machine needle).
30 years ago everyone made weighted chatelaines with their small scissors on one end and the seam ripper and other tools on the other. They were usually made of ribbon, and worn with ends dangling around the neck.
I’ve been sewing over forty years & the brass seam ripper is the best I’ve ever used. Actually I bought a second one too after test driving the first one. The blade is thin enough to get under very tiny stitches & it is sharp! You will be thrilled with your purchase!
I have been thinking about getting one of these for a while but havent actually looked for one till now. Wish I hadn’t over here in the UK they are £40
They’re available on Etsy for around £14. They come from the US but are under the customs limit so no nasty surprises!
Thank you so much, just ordered one. Hope it is the same. I always forget about Etsy because everything I find cant be shipped here.
Mine has arrived thank you Diane. It was in a plastic bag not on a card like the Nifty Notions ones. I got it off Etsy. It was about £14 as you said opposed to £40 over here. It looks exactly the same as the photos on here. It is a nice weight, with a long slim point. Not at all flimsy. It looks as though it will do the job when needed.
The little red bead on the end of the ‘hook’ is there to tell you when to stop ‘ripping’ the buttonhole. It also is a good idea to place pins perpendicular to the the length of the buttonhole you need to cut just so you don’t zip on past the length you need. To cut buttonholes cleanly go to the hardware store and purchase a chisel but remember to use a wood block underneath. Notion companies sell these little chisel/wood block sets but they cost at least triple what a single chisel at the hardware does.
I use a surgical sickle shaped seam ripper which has a very fine blade but works wonders if you have to pick out serger seams. It slips in-between all the those threads like a hot knife through butter. That blade has kept sharp for over 20 years for me – but be careful as it will slice your fingers really easily too.
I just ordered a fancy one as well. It is on it’s way from Australia. I ordered one that has a gorgeous handle! It is glass and colorful. I hope it cuts for a long time or can be sharpened. otherwise I have been using a scalpel with a curved blade. The blades can be replaced and for me that works a lot better as I dull them quickly! they seem to be the most used tools after my scissors! I do a lot of frog stitching! Rippit, rippit, rippit!!!! LOL!!!!!
Well, I’ve been irritated with my seam rippers, so I ordered this one on Amazon!
I have the brass one and may order the brass stiletto (don’t have a stiletto at all). I love the seam ripper. The blade seems finer than the others and I can get under the stitches easier. I have a ribbon tied around it and sometimes wear it around my neck. However, if I were using a long arm machine, I would definitely have to remember to remove my jewelry!
Tip for when you’re opening a button hole or putting a hole in for snaps: put a pin perpendicular to the end of the button hole or end of were the snap holes need to be, just a hair inside the end. That way when you cut the pin acts like a “stop” to prevent you from getting a bit carried away if the ripper slips.
Quality ALWAYS wins over cheap junk and high quality means YOU DON’T KEEP BUYING THE SAME JUNK OVER AND OVER, SO IT IS LESS EXPENSIVE IN THE LONG RUN! I’ve had a brass one for years. Good steel can be sharpened – take it to a sharpening shop! I bought a pair of vintage, but good quality, buttonhole scissors many years ago and got them sharpened, and they are adjustable to your buttonhole length so you can’t cut beyond the length you’ve set them for. Priceless! Buy the best quality in everything, and it will always serve you well. That dictum has served me very well for my entire adult life. If I wanted a new model of something with enhanced or new features, I passed along my old to my kids to use or someone else who needed something better than they had. Good quality has a long life. They still drive 1956 Chevrolets in Cuba because they were high quality, were well taken care of, and had new parts made when needed. Take a lesson from that.
They still drive 1956 Chevys in Cuba because there was a trade embargo placed on Cuba by the U.S. in 1960. All imports were and are still stopped except humanitarian ones like food and medicine.
I just use the one that came with the sewing machine. I use it a lot so I suppose eventually it will get blunt. Then I’ll look into investing in a better one, probably.
I would never use a seam ripper to cut open button holes or make holes for magnetic snaps. I use my trusty pair of nail scissors for that (kept only for sewing)as I feel I have more control with the scissors. I use my seam ripper only to unpick stitching.
Ok I admit, I have bad sewing habits 😉
I have one and love it! But it is hard to see in my other stuff so I was thinking of messing a fob with a colorful bead or something. I didn’t know it had that warranty! Did I keep my package? ?
I don’t have one but it does look pretty 🙂 I’d probably misplace it in the sewing drawer though, which is the reason I now a few seam rippers myself. It would be a nice addition to the ‘travel’ kit I have, though. Yes, it deserves to go on my ‘wish’ list 🙂
By the way, it actually sounds like you used the wrong tool for the job at hand ..maybe a buttonhole knife would have been better or a small pair of snips? But if you choose to use a seam ripper to go through fabric again, a trick I learned a few years ago is to put a pin (or safety pin) at the end of the line you are slicing through so you don’t go too far.
Good idea Brenda. Everyone should do this regardless of what kind of seam ripper they have. Can’t wait for Deby to let us know what she thinks of the brass seam ripper.
Hi Deby
i will be very interested to hear how you get on with this ripper. it looks very thin to hold. i have had thin plastic ones in the past and found them difficult to hold and therefore use.Sandy
It should be here any day now. I’m thinking although its thin, its going to have good weight to it so won’t feel flimsy. I’m going to be looking for all sorts of things to be unpicked.