I use small scissors that I got when I worked at the hospital. I had a friend who worked in the ER where they use "kits". When they didn't use the scissors, she would catch them before the used kit was tossed and bring them to me. They are stainless steel and didn't deserve to be trashed! I have a curved pair or two that I use when I am using the LA to clip threads. Just recently purchased some double-curve scissors to use with new embroidery machine. I haven't used a seam ripper in years, but have several lying around somewhere.