Tools, Body Position, Safety Haircutting Tools Holding tools properly Body posture

Used to cut blunt or straight lines as well as other texturizing techniques. The term shears and scissors may be used interchangeably

Straight razor or razor shaper: used when a softer effect is desired on the ends. Can be used for entire haircuts, to thin hair, to texturize areas, can be used with or without guards

Proper holding of your tools: gives most control and best results and avoids muscle strain in hands, arms, neck and back. Open dominant hand and place ring finger in finger grip of still blade and little finger in finger brace (tang) Hold comb between thumb and index and middle fingers Practice turning the cob in your hand while palming the shears

Haircutting Tools Thinning shears Clippers Edgers Used to remove bulk from hair; sometimes referred to as texturizing shears, tapering shears, or notching shears Clippers Used for creating short tapers, short haircuts, fades, flat tops or to shave hair off right to the scalp Edgers A smaller version of clippers; mainly used to remove excess or unwanted hair at the neckline and around ears Styling or cutting combs, barber combs, wide-tooth comb and sectioning clips

Palming the Shears

Holding the Razor

Body Posture Cutting over your fingers Cutting below fingers Cutting palm to palm

Safety in Haircutting Always palm shears and razor when combing or parting hair Do not cut past second knuckle Take extra care cutting around the ears Always use a razor guard Dispose of razor blades carefully

Sanitation and disinfection Wash hands Sweep up cut hair and dispose of properly before proceeding with service Drape client properly Sanitize combs, brushes, shears, clips and other implements after each haircut Replace blade in razor prior to each client Maintain shears properly Sanitize workstation after each haircutting service

Summary A good haircut serves as the foundation for numerous other services Hold tools the proper way to help in body posture in relationship to the head Sanitation is a state requirement but also help to maintain your tools sharpness and longevity