Florists know that great arrangements begin long before the first stem touches a vase. The tools behind the scenes—particularly the shears—shape the quality, longevity, and ease of every floral design. Whether you’re crafting a bridal bouquet, trimming greenery from the garden, or sculpting a centerpiece, the right pair of shears can change everything.
This guide explores the major types of florist shears, what they’re best suited for, how to choose the right pair, and which models have earned a reputation for reliability.
Understanding the Tools: Types of Florist Shears
Floral Scissors and Snips
Floral scissors—sometimes called snips—are the precision instruments of the flower world. Lightweight and designed for control, they feature thin blades that make clean, accurate cuts through soft stems, petals, and foliage.
These tools shine when a gentle touch is required. They slip effortlessly between crowded stems in a tight bouquet or trim delicate leaves without bruising them. Professional floral designers rely on these for shaping arrangements, trimming ribbon ends, and fine-tuning the smallest details.
Floral snips are ideal for:
- Soft stems such as tulips, ranunculus, and cosmos
- Shaping bouquet silhouettes
- Cutting leaves, thin branches, and twine
- Repetitive detail work that demands comfort and accuracy
Because they prioritize finesse over power, floral scissors are not intended for thick or woody stems. Their beauty lies in delicacy.
Bypass Pruners
Bypass pruners are the workhorses of floral design. They operate with a scissor-like mechanism: two curved blades passing closely against each other to slice cleanly through stems rather than crushing them.
For anyone who regularly harvests flowers from the garden, bypass pruners are indispensable. They create smooth cuts that help stems take up water more efficiently, extending vase life—a critical factor for bouquets that must look fresh for days.
Bypass pruners excel at cutting:
- Fresh, live stems
- Medium-thickness greenery such as eucalyptus or ruscus
- Roses, peonies, dahlias, and sunflowers
- Sturdy garden growth
These pruners balance precision with strength. They are versatile enough for everyday use but powerful enough for a florist’s most demanding tasks.
Anvil Pruners
Anvil pruners feature a single straight blade that closes onto a flat surface, or “anvil.” This creates a cutting action more reminiscent of a knife meeting a chopping block. The result is a stronger, more forceful cut that works well on tough or woody stems.
Because the action can slightly crush soft plant tissue, anvil pruners are not suited for fresh, delicate flowers. Instead, they are best reserved for:
- Dried flowers
- Thick, woody branches
- Hard stems found in wreaths or structural arrangements
For designers working regularly with dried botanicals or seasonal branches, anvil pruners offer a level of cutting power that standard shears cannot match.
Specialty Cutting Tools
Professional florists often incorporate a handful of specialized tools to complement their main shears.
Ratchet Pruners
Ideal for those who need to cut thicker stems repeatedly, ratchet pruners use a mechanical system that increases cutting power while reducing hand strain. They are particularly helpful for florists with smaller hands or those prone to fatigue during large projects.
Wire Cutters
Because cutting wire with standard shears can ruin blades, dedicated wire cutters are a smart addition to any floral toolkit. They handle floral wire, wired ribbons, and artificial stems with ease.
Floral Knives
Used widely in European and high-end floral schools, floral knives deliver exceptionally clean cuts on soft stems. They require technique and care, but in skilled hands they offer unmatched precision.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Shears
Selecting the right shears goes beyond choosing a style. The materials, ergonomics, and maintenance requirements determine how well they perform and how long they last.
Blade Material
- Stainless steel resists rust and is easy to clean, making it a simple and reliable option.
- High-carbon steel holds an exceptionally sharp edge but requires regular cleaning and oiling to prevent corrosion.
- Titanium-coated blades provide durability and corrosion resistance with minimal upkeep.
The sharper the blade, the cleaner the cut—and the healthier the stem.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Professional florists may make hundreds of cuts in a day. Look for shears with:
- Non-slip, cushioned handles
- Smooth spring-loaded action
- A size that fits the hand comfortably
Comfort can make the difference between smooth workflow and hand strain.
Weight and Balance
Light shears reduce fatigue during detail work, while heavier pruners provide the necessary leverage for cutting thicker stems. A well-balanced tool feels natural in the hand and improves accuracy.
Maintenance Needs
Quality shears should be easy to:
- Sharpen
- Disassemble for cleaning
- Lubricate
- Replace blades or springs
Well-maintained shears perform better and last longer, often for years or even decades.
Standout Shears to Consider
Below is a selection of commonly trusted shears favored by florists, gardeners, and DIY arrangers. While prices and availability vary by region, the following models have earned broad respect for performance and durability.
Chikamasa Florist Deluxe MF-9000P
A refined, lightweight floral scissors designed for precision and daily use. Excellent for soft stems and detailed arranging.
Okatsune 306 Cutting Shears
Widely admired for their sharpness and reliability. Simple, durable, and well-balanced, these are a favorite for general flower cutting and light gardening.
ARS Pruning Shears 130DX-P
A strong bypass pruner ideal for fresh stems and medium-thick greenery. Trusted by gardeners and florists who need dependable cutting power.
Chikamasa Ultra Rosso MF-8000P
Versatile floral scissors suitable for both soft stems and small branches. Comfortable for long sessions and valued for their precision.
VIVOSUN Hand Pruner
A budget-friendly bypass pruner with surprising performance. A practical starter tool or spare pair for everyday use.
Rozendoorn Garden Scissor Set
A multipurpose set suited to rose stems and typical evergreen foliage. Useful for hobbyists working both in the garden and at the arranging table.
CYRUS Garden Shears
A general-purpose pruner offering a balance between floral work and light pruning tasks—ideal for those who want one tool to do most jobs.
Botanics Shop Edinburgh Flower Snips
Large, finely crafted snips well suited for trimming multiple stems and shaping arrangements. A reliable choice for florists who prefer traditional tools.
Choosing the Right Shears for Your Style of Work
Every florist, gardener, or hobby arranger develops a preferred way of working. The best shears complement that workflow.
For Bouquet Making and Delicate Designs
Choose lightweight floral scissors or snips that prioritize control and clean, precise cuts.
For Cutting Fresh Stems Straight from the Garden
Bypass pruners are essential. They keep stems healthy and encourage better water uptake.
For Roses, Branches, and Tougher Greens
Consider a strong bypass pruner or, for harder material, an anvil pruner.
For Dried Flowers and Structured Arrangements
Anvil pruners or a quality pair of scissors designed for dried materials will perform best.
For Those Seeking One Versatile Tool
A mid-sized bypass pruner will handle most daily floral tasks with ease.
A florist’s shears are not simply a tool; they are an extension of the designer’s hands. When chosen thoughtfully, they elevate the experience of arranging flowers, reduce fatigue, and ensure every stem is cut with intention.
Whether you’re a professional florist crafting arrangements for clients or a home enthusiast arranging freshly picked flowers from the garden, investing in the right pair of shears can transform your craft. A well-chosen tool offers precision, ease, and reliability—qualities that every floral designer values.