I wouldn't do anything without my Fiskars spring loaded scissors. I have a small one (5 or 6 inches, I can't remember) and 2 larger ones (10 inch, one for paper, one for fabric). Since they are spring loaded they are super perfect for any issues like arthritis, and there are no handle holes to squish your fingers. The small micro pair does have a very sharp end and I have used for some applique purposes, but they are not as fine or detailed as regular applique scissors.

I love, love, love these scissors for general cutting and I have absolutely no problem using them for larger applique. I have the 10” pair. My hands never get tired and the handle holes are perfect for my fingers!
My go-to applique scissors. Such control with these, and their serrated applique scissors are great for grabbing the fabric to make sure there are no errant cuts - especially around curves. The finger holes may be somewhat smaller than the KKB scissors, but I feel I have greater hand control with them.

The very best spring loaded scissors are Heritage Rag Snip scissors. They are the best quality scissors of this type I have used. DH was so impressed with them he bought a pair for household use.

Since you're looking for scissors for applique, I recommend this company: http://www.mygoodscissors.com/, they have excellent prices and service, I get # 6204.

I think I must have 20 some pairs of scissors.....and oh golly, I use most of them.....if I am doing something....I gotta have my favorite scissors for doing it.....I do buy good quality ones …..I do think getting good scissors pays for themselves in the long run....but If I don't like a scissors or have messed them up.....I put them in my kitchen drawer for paper cutting, flower cutting, cutting off plastic tags etc.....I do like the ones that have softer handles as the metals dig in after a while....

My favorite scissors, hands down, are Kai. I have several pairs, 4 of which I just sent off to Kai for sharpening. They are micro-serrated, which means the fabric won't slip between the blades. They also have a rubber coating on the handles, which makes them softer on the hands.

A couple years back, there was someone here on the board who was a lefty and was looking for something specific, some specialty applique scissors, I think? She was frustrated because she couldn't find what she wanted anywhere. Based on several encouraging responses here, she contacted Kai and they custom-made her a pair, exactly what she wanted, and if I remember right, didn't charge anything over and above what the regular price would have been. She was very happy. :)

I don't understand a leftie not buying left hand scissors. It would be like a right handed person buying left hand scissors. I have a couple pair of left handed scissors in my sewing room for my left handed grand and quilting friends.

Sharpen scissors
 

has anyone tried to sharpen shears? Is that possible?

I've used Gingher for years and they've held up well. But I recently got Karen Kay Buckley and they are fantastic! My new favorites.

I have a lot of scissors and I love the Katen Kay Buckley scissors. I have them in. 3 sizes. I love how they “hold” the fabric, the sharp points and the soft handles. Personally I think they are a bargain. I have had mine for several years and they are still like new.