Cutting Tools
What tool is most commonly used for basic haircutting?
Shears
The section used to determine the length for the rest of the haircut.
Guideline
The angle at which hair is lifted away from the head, which affects the length and weight of the haircut.
Cutting Angle
Cutting into the hair at an angle with shears to create texture, rather than a straight line.
Point Cutting
A texturizing technique where shears are used to snip into the ends of the hair to create a less voluminous, textured look
Notching
Use these to remove weight or create texture.
Thinning Shears
These build weight and create solid, one-length lines. Ideal for blunt cuts
Horizontal lines
The angle at which your fingers hold the hair section.
Finger Angle
Removing bulk without changing the overall length.
Thinning or texturizing
A technique where hair is combed away from its natural falling position before cutting to create increased length or volume.
Overdirection
Use these to create short cropped hairstyles.
Clippers
These create rounded shapes or, when used in cutting, a soft, tapered, or blended effect,
Diagonal Lines
This angle creates a tapered effect known as a "wedge" or stacked bob, which builds weight and volume.
45 degree angle
Cutting hair while dry to see the final shape and texture
Dry Cutting
The outer boundary or outline of the haircut.
Perimeter
Often used by professionals, these are designed for cutting, thinning, and texturizing hair without injury thanks to guarded blades.
Feather Razor
These remove weight and create layers, providing movement.
Vertical Lines
Hair is lifted straight out from the head, removing weight evenly and creating layers.
90 degree Angle
A stacking technique that builds weight, often used in bobs.
Graduation
A technique used to remove length smoothly and create a soft edge.
Slide cutting
This is used on the hairline and for very precise lines when precision custting
Liners or Trimmers
These follow the natural head shape to add volume (convex) or create, tapered, or blended effects.
Curved Lines
Used for creating long layers with high movement and maximum weight reduction.
180 degree angle
A technique used to blend the sides and top, often to achieve a smooth fade.
Clipper over comb
The amount of pressure (pull) applied when holding a section of hair during a cut.
Tension