I received a pair of pinking shears as a gift many years ago, and have never used them. Are they used in quilting? What else would you use them for?

Pinking the raw edges of yardage before washing helps with the raveling problem.

Pinking the edges of applique pieces reduces the need for clipping curved edges.

Sometimes I will pink applique pieces and then not turn the edges under, that makes an interesting edge
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When I am crafting with felt, I will often pink the felt edges for the decorative edge as well.

In dressmaking, I will pink most of the seam allowances, controls fraying and makes a more finished looking seam. The "valley", not the peak usually needs to run along the cutting line.

BUT, NEVER use the pinking shears with loosely woven fabrics, each cut thread really unravels quickly.

They are good if you are quilting flannel or denim. Just make sure you use the valley as the cutting edge, like Cosy said. I always pink my edges when making clothing because I do not use a serger.

I use them a lot when making clothes. They would be good for applique.... going to have to dig them out!

I don't know when I last used mine .... and now, when needed I'd use the rotary cutter with a pinking edge blade in it.

Glad you questioned the use of pinking shears. I did not know that using them with applique would make the job easier.

I use mine all the time I dont know how I ever lived without them. They come in handy with raveling fabrics and applique.

I would like to sell my Gingher pinking shears. Never use them. $20