I do a lot of machine embroidery applique, and just machine embroidery in general. I use squeezers, same thing as the Havels link shown above. I have straight blade and curved blade ones, different brands bought from different places. After using these just once I bought a pair to have at every machine in use in the house. If you have arthritis in your hands these are so much easier to use than scissors. For applique I use the curved blade, it allows me to get right up the threads without cutting through them.
Cari