my DD bought one of those cutters that look like a necklace that fits around your neck and only cuts thread...we usually only do hand projects anyway

Actually, I think it could be used to strangle someone. It's very strong and won't break like string. Maybe airport security hasn't put it on a watch list, though. Plus, you could always bring an empty dental floss container just for the cutter.

Nail clippers are a no no in these parts... :(

5 years I flew from UK to Australia so took a long time choosing projects to keep me occupied during the flight and bought a Clover circular cutter (which you attach a chain to and wear round your neck) which went entirely unnoticed. In fact I didn't actually do any sewing because I forgot to put my reading glasses in my handluggage!! Haven't made that mistake since but I find I'm not comfortable enough to sew and when I have done I've usually ripped out and started again when I get home.
Thanks for the brilliant site - I've been lurking for some time looking at the beautiful work you all produce and thought it about time I joined properly.

I have taken nail clippers on board lately with no problem. Last time we flew, had more problems with my metal knee - I was checked over for about 5 minutes - offered to show them the scar, but they weren't interested. LOL We left enough time because we knew they would stop us. I usually read on planes, so never have tried to take needles. The October we flew after 911, they were a lot more strict then they are now. But you have to thank them for being so strict - it might save your life.

Two years ago my daughter was flying back to Maryland with Maine blueberry jelly and they took it - she called me on my cell and I had to go back in the airport and get it - luckly we have small airports here in Maine. The TSA agent said they would just throw the jelly away, even though she offered to give it to the agent.

Just to follow up on this thread that I started before my trip:

I ended up taking a box of dental floss to cut my thread, like someone here suggested, because I couldn't find my nail clippers. I had no problem at all with the needles (and a few pins) at the airport in Ottawa. They were in a ziplock with my hand-sewing project that was packed in my carry-on.

On the way back, I forgot that I had stowed my little embroidery scissors (which I had packed in my hold luggage on the way there) in the ziplock with the rest of my sewing stuff in my carry-on, but it still passed through security at Heathrow airport in London with no problems! I was very surprised afterwards when I realised I had left them there, but I guess they were small enough that the guy running the scanning machine either missed them or didn't think they were a threat. They did make us take off our shoes, though (which they didn't in Ottawa on the way out), so they were being very thorough.

Jan

Another thing is most airlines now have lists available on their web sites on what you can and cannot carry on. Check the web sites because they are always changing and even different airlines have different policies. Before I flew to vegas I went to Walmart to the school section and bought a small pair of blunt end scissors less than 3 inches and they were fine for the carry on, but just in case they weren't I wouldn't be upset to lose them :lol:
Sharon