SCISSORS_MEERUT_DESIGN_CLINIC_ WORKSHOP_Full_Report

Meerut 

Meerut Meerut Scissors 

Scissors 

Industry 

Industry 

Uttar Pradesh India 2012 

Need Assessment Study by Industrial Designer 

Amita Bhatnagar 

Organized by FISME New Delhi 

NID / MSME DESIGN CLINIC WORKSHOP SCHEME 

Need Assessment Study AMITA BHATNAGAR 

MEERUT SCISSORS INDUSTRY Design Consultant. Delhi. March 2012 

NID /MSME Design Clinic Scheme 

1

Index Pgs 

1. Acknowledgements 3 

2. Meerut City - A Geographical Analysis 4 

3. Industrial Product - A Functional Analysis 5-6 

4. Scissors - A Short History 6 

5. Product Variety – Meerut Scissors Industry MESMA (SPV) 7-8 

6. Raw Materials - Meerut Scissors Industry MESMA (SPV) 9-10 

7. Existing Technology Overview - Meerut Scissors Industry 11-14 

8. Production - Meerut Scissors Industry MESMA (SPV) 16-23 

9. Labeling & Packaging - Meerut Scissors Industry 24 

10. A macro perspective - Cluster Business model 25-26 

11. Design Analysis 27-29 

12. Design Intervention areas 30-31 

13. Future Design Research & Marketing & Competition 32-33 

14. Design Audit of Scissors manufacturing Units of Meerut 34-41 

15. Suggestions for Industry & Business growth 42 

* Note : Design suggestions on every page given in Italics, Bold 




2

Acknowledgements 

I would like to thank The MSME Director as well as 

The Director of NID Mr. Pradyumna Vyas and 

Project Head Mr. Shashank for giving me this 

opportunity to work for the Meerut Scissors Industry. 

I would also like to thank Mr. Girish Kumar M. D. 

of Sai Electricals for his keen interest in the Design 

Survey of the Meerut Scissors Industry. 

Mr. Anil Bharadwaj Secretary General FISME 

Delhi, for his valuable guidance. Mr. V. M Sastry 

and Mr. Samuel from FISME Delhi for taking care of 

the Introductions to the Scissors association in 

Meerut and logistics and other arrangements for the 

Meerut Scissors Industry Need Assessment survey as 

a Designer. 

I would also like to thank all the Meerut Scissors 

manufacturers MESMA (SPV), its President Mr. 

Farmanuddin and its members for extending their 

assistance and Co-Operation at all times during the 

survey. 

I am especially grateful to Mr. Sajid and Mr. Sharif 

from the Meerut Scissors manufacturers MESMA 

(SPV) for their co-operation and taking out time 

from their busy schedules to accompany me to all 

the units in Meerut and providing me with valuable 

information and material available with them. 

Mr. Farmanuddin and Mr. Sharif have also been able 

to make available the relevant figures and specific 

Macro level statistics. 

I am grateful to Mr. Farmanuddin the President 

and all the other members of the Meerut scissors 

manufacturers MESMA (SPV) who allowed me to 

visit their manufacturing units for this study, and 

shared their problems, issues and concerns. 




3

Meerut - A Geographical Analysis 

Meerut is a metropolitan city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is an ancient city located 70 km (43 mi) 

northeast of the national capital New Delhi, and 453 km (281 mi) northwest of the state capital, Lucknow. It is the 

second largest city in the National Capital Region of India (the largest being Delhi), the 16th largest metropolitan 

area and 17 th largest city in India. It ranked 292 in 2006 and 242 in 2010 in the list of largest cities and urban 

areas in the world and is the second fastest developing city in Uttar Pradesh (after Noida). The city covers an area 

of about 172 km 2 (66 sq mi) while the total metropolitan area is 198 km 2 (76 sq mi), third largest in Uttar Pradesh 

after Lucknow and Kanpur. It has the 2 nd largest army cantonment in the country. 

Meerut has a monsoon influenced humid subtropical climate characterized by very hot summers and cool winters. 

Summers last from early April to late June and are extremely hot, with temperatures reaching 43 °C (109 °F). The 

monsoon arrives in late June and continues till the middle of September. Temperatures drop slightly, with plenty of 

cloud cover but with higher humidity. Temperatures rise again in October and the city then has a mild, dry winter 

season from late October to the middle of March Lowest temperature recorded is 0.5 °C (32.9 °F) Rainfall is about 

80 cm to 100 cm per annum, which is suitable for growing crops. Most of the rainfall is received during 

the monsoon. Humidity varies from 30 to 100%. 

Meerut is famously associated with the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against the British East India Company. [19] The 

famous slogan "Dilli Chalo" ("Let's march to Delhi!") was first raised here. Meerut cantonment is the place where 

the rebellion started when Hindu and Muslim soldiers were given rifle cartridges rumored to have a coating made of 

animal fat. 

The city is one of the largest producers of Scissors, Sports goods, and the largest producer of musical instruments 

in India. 




4

Scissors 

The Product – A Functional Analysis 

Scissor is a cutting device which is used to cut various materials. It is made up of two blades which rotate on an 

axis against each other and divide the placed material in two parts. Scissors function when two blades under 

tension are closed against one another. 

Scissors are probably some of the first tools a person learns to use. Children can amuse themselves for hours 

cutting shapes out of construction paper. It's a safe bet that most people use scissors for something several times 

a week, if not every day. 

Scissors are cutting tools. They have to cut - always evenly, without problems, and with a minimum of effort. 

1. Friction and twist 

Tension between the blades is in essence achieved through a slight bowing of the blades. In technical terms the 

blades are in friction mode to one another. This means that there is an arching in the blades towards the inside of 

the scissors. In addition both blades are turned along the side towards the cutting edge. In technical terms this is 

known as "twist". Friction and twist create such a force on the point of convergence of the cutting edge that the 

material gives and is severed. 

2. Sharpness 

What is usually called "sharpness" is technically defined as the angle of the cutting edge. The smaller the angle of 

the cutting edge - technical term the bevel or edge - the sharper the scissors will be. The disadvantage is that the 

more acute the angle, the greater the instability of the edge, and the scissors will dull faster. Therefore the shape 

and type of cutting edge are paramount in the manufacture of scissors. Grinding the cutting edge of their scissors 

at a variety of different angles depending on their final application. Finally there is the precision grinding of the 

cutting edge. Through this process microscopic flaws on the edge are completely eliminated. A straight edge is 

"sharper" than a ragged one. The cutting process is further enhanced through the wedge shape of the blade, which 

allows the material to glide away and thus magnify the sharpness. 




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Based on their function, scissors tend to push the material being cut forward when the two blades close. Depending 

on the application, a serrated edge could be required to prevent the material from sliding. The basics described 

above are also applicable here. More important than the serration is the actual cutting action. The ideal closing 

angle of the blades to one another is approximately 21°. Based on their construction the angle changes during the 

closing action, and this is why high quality scissors have a bowed cutting edge, for the specific purpose of 

maintaining an even cutting action with a consistent closing angle. 

The insides of the blades of high quality scissors are concave ground. This hollow grinding not only reduces the 

friction resistance but also allows the material to smoothly slip away after being cut, without being hindered by 

jamming of the material when the blades are separated. 

History 

Scissors date from before the first century A.D. They can be seen in various forms in Egyptian art and have been 

the tools for tailors and barbers for at least 2,000 years. In Greek mythology, when Atropos of the Three Fates cut 

the thread of a life, she did it with "shears" or scissors. 




6

Types of Scissors manufactured in Meerut 

Scissors cluster, Meerut (India) is a 360 years old cluster. Main types of products are Barber scissors, Tailor 

scissors, General scissors and Paper scissors. Some Manufacturing has been switched over from hand work 

to mechanized processes through the Common Facility Centre established with the assistance of NIESBUD, 

Ministry of MSME, Government of India. 

Barber Scissors: Polished / Electroplated / with Plastic handles 

Barber Scissors: Polished / Powder coated / electroplated / serrated 

Scissors: Plastic handles / Black Powder coated / Red Powder coated / electroplated 




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Paper Scissors General Scissors 

* Better Raw material is required for a better quality final product 

Normal Tailors Scissor Heavy Tailors Scissor 

* Packaging and Graphic Design require contentious development at Meerut Scissors Industry 

Advantages of Scissors manufactured in Meerut 

1. The scissors manufactured in Meerut can be resharpened and have a long life. 

2. The Meerut scissors Industry is Labor Intensive. 

3. The scissors manufactured in Meerut are comparatively inexpensive. 

4. Maximum utilization of Space during processing and manufacturing 

5. The Industry is 360 yrs old. 

6. 50,000 people are directly involved in the Industry. 

7. 20,000 people are involved indirectly in the Industry. 




8

Raw Material 

Steel scissors exist in two basic forms. Carbon steel is used to make scissors in which the blade and the handle 

form one continuous piece. Carbon steel is manufactured from iron and about 1% carbon. It has the advantages of 

being strong and staying sharp. Scissors made from carbon steel are usually plated with nickel or chromium to 

prevent them from rusting. 

Stainless steel is used to make scissors in which a plastic handle is fitted to the metal blade. Stainless steel is 

manufactured from iron, about 1% carbon, and at least 10% chromium. It has the advantages of being light and 

rustproof. Stainless steel is not used in Meerut. The Plastic handles of scissors are made from a strong, light 

substance such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) plastic as well as PVC. 

* Raw material Storage systems and Space Design for better efficiency 

The Meerut scissor manufactures use scrap steel bought from the railways or automobile Industries. As these are 

cheaper than buying fresh metal stocks. (Stainless Steel Scissors production need a different scale and technology, 

and can be manufactured in large Industrial set ups.) The scrap metal is collected and roller machines used to 

make them into plates. These metal plates are then used for either Press cutting, or hand forging . Where brass 

handles have to be added for increasing the weight and give finishing, the handles are casted after the steel blade 

ends are fitted into the moulds. 




9

Scrap Carbon steel 

Scissors are generally made from Steel but as per 

the requirement of uses it may be manufactured 

with other metals too. Steel Scissors are 

manufactured using three kinds of materials. 

• Carbon Steel 

• Mild steel 

• Stainless steel 

Carbon Steel Scissors are made with single piece. 

Carbon Steel Scissors handles and blades are 

made with an undivided slice of carbon steel bar. 

Carbon Steel Scissors are robust and its blade has 

long lasting sharpness. Application of a layer of 

nickel or chromium increases their rust 

resistance. 

Steel Scissor is also sometimes fitted with plastic 

handles. Stainless steel Scissors have high rust 

resistance. The use of chromium makes them 

highly rustproof. Stainless steel Scissors are light 

in weight and offer a comfortable handling weight 

*Inconsistent quality Raw material needs to 

be controlled 

Metal scrap 




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Old utensils are melted as Brass scrap and used for 

making Handles for certain kind of Scissors which are 

produced in Meerut. 

Brass Scrap

Meerut Scissor Industry Technology Overview 

Roller Machines at Meerut to prepare the Metal Sheet from Scrap Metal 

* Heavy Machinery Installations and fittings to be designed for reducing vibrations during 

operations as well as reduction in consumption of power. 

Press Machine Dies used for cutting Blanks 




11

Multiple head ‘ H ‘ Press Machine Single head ‘ C ’ Press Machine 

Open oven for Hand forging of Blanks Hand tools used for Hand Forging 

* Redesign of process and systems required for volume quality production 

Hand Files Hand Tools 




12

List of Hand Tools and Machines 

The Hand tools most commonly used are : 

1. Hammer 100gm head 

2. Hammer 800gm head 

3. Square File 

4. Round File 

5. Half Round File 

6. Rindge 

7. Plus 

8. Pincers 

9. Crucible 

10. Anvil 

11. Iron Round Plate 

12. Chaeni 

The Machines most commonly used are : 

1. Rolling Machine 

2. Lathe 

3. Die Tools 

4. Hand Drill 

5. Press H 

6. Press C 

7. Grinding Blade 

8. Furnace hard coke 

9. Milling Cutter 

10. Surface Grinder 

11. Polishing Machine 

12. Buffing Machine 

13. Tool Grinder 

14. Chamfering Machine 

15. Nickel Plating Plant 

16. Gold Plating Plant 




13

Fan & forge Crucible Furnace Mould for casting the Brass handles 

* An enclosure designed around the furnace would help in reducing heat in the adjoining work area 

Hand Drill Grinding machines 

*A container for residue shrapnel could be effective 

designed to fit the space below the hand drill 

Sharpening the Grinder Processing after Press cutting 




14

Local Sizing Machine Local Machine for Chamfering of Edge 

* Lighting and working area systems planning Design required 

Buffing and Polishing Electroplating 




15

Production 

The manufacture of scissors is a rigorous precision work. The selection of materials is just as important as the 

actual production process on precision equipment. Specialists highly skilled in their field of work are required. 

Meerut Scissors are among the top specialists in India for Handmade scissors. What is needed is greater ongoing 

development of products and production methods which needs to be brought about a know-how that is yet to 

improve the present product. 

Making the blanks 

1. Before they are sharpened and attached, the two halves of a pair of scissors are known as blanks. A blank 

may consist of a blade and a handle in one piece or it may consist of only the blade. In the latter case, a 

metal handle will be welded to the blade or a plastic handle will be attached to it. 

• 2. Inexpensive scissors may be made from blanks formed by cold stamping. In this process, a sharp die in 

the shape of the blank is stamped into a sheet of unheated steel. The die cuts through the steel to form 

the blank. 




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• 3. Blanks may also be made by molding. Molten steel is poured into a mold in the shape of the blank. The 

steel cools back into a solid and the blank are removed. 

• 4. Most quality scissors are made from blanks formed by drop forging. Like cold stamping, this process 

involves shaping the blanks with a die. This die, known as a drop hammer, pounds into a bar of red-hot 

steel to form the blank. The pressure of the drop hammer also strengthens the steel. 

* Raw material Wastage control systems and Die designs required 

Processing the blanks 

• 5. The blanks are trimmed to the proper shape by cutting away excess metal. A hole is drilled through the 

blank. This hole will later allow two completed blades to be attached to each other. 




17

• 6. The trimmed blanks are hardened by heating them, then cooling them quickly in cold air, water, oil, or 

another substance. The temperature to which they are heated and the medium in which they are cooled 

varies depending on the type of steel from which they are made and the desired characteristics of the 

blade. 

• 7. The hardened blanks are heated again and allowed to cool slowly in air. This second heating, known as 

tempering, gives the blank a uniform hardness. If the blades of a pair of scissors did not have uniform 

hardness, the harder places on one blade would soon wear out the softer places on the other blade. 

• 8. The repeated heating and cooling causes the blanks to warp. They are straightened by being placed on 

an anvil and lightly tapped with a hammer. This process is known as peening. 

* Work station Designs for Man power maximization required 




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Grinding and polishing 

• The blank is ground into a blade by applying the edge to a rapidly moving sanding belt or abrasive wheel. 

The surface of the belt or wheel is covered with small particles of an abrasive substance and works in the 

same way as sandpaper. The hard abrasive grinds away enough steel to form a sharp edge. During this 

process, the blade is cooled with water or various liquids known as cutting fluids to prevent it from heating 

and warping. The sharpened blade is then polished in a similar manner using belts or wheels, containing 

much smaller particles of abrasive. 

*Design of Safety gear for hands, feet, eyes and face for the workers using the grinders needed 

Making the handles 

• 10. For many scissors, the handles are formed from the start as part of the blank. If not, they may be 

made of a metal alloy or from plastic. If they are metal, they are made in the same way as the blanks and 

then welded to them. If they are plastic, they are made by injection molding. In this process, molten 

plastic is forced under pressure into a mold in the shape of the handles. It is allowed to cool and the mold 

is opened to remove the handles. The handles contain hollow slots into which the end of the blanks can be 

inserted. A strong adhesive is used to keep the handle firmly attached. 




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Preparing Moulds for Casting of Brass Handles Moulds being set with blade blanks 

* Design of in flow and out flow to improve man power performance 

Fan and Forge crucible oven Casting in process pouring molten Brass 

* Design of crucible with attached insulated handle to avoid slippage and accidents 

Emptying the moulds minutes after casting Removing the Blanks with casted handles 




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Brass scrap for handles for Tailor’s scissors Grinder * Leg and Hand guard Designs required 

Ready Casted Blanks 

Filing the inner edges with a hand file Curvature adjustment in process 

* The Design of Upgraded Moulds can help in better finishing 




21

Assembling the scissors 

Two polished blades are attached to each other by a 

rivet or screw through the previously drilled holes. 

Rivets, which cannot be adjusted by the consumer, 

are used to make less expensive scissors. Adjustable 

screws are used in more costly scissors. The scissors 

are adjusted to ensure that the two blades work 

together correctly. They may be painted or plated 

with nickel or chrome to protect them from rust. 

Joining the pair of blanks with a Nut and 

Bolt 

Blades are sharpened on the grinding 

wheel after assembling of the scissors 

Riveting pair of Blanks for Barber Scissors 

* Design of Adjustable upgraded screws for 

riveting required for long term functional 

betterment of a high grade Product 




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The most important aspect of quality control for 

scissors is the proper alignment of the two blades. In 

order for scissors to cut smoothly, the blades must 

meet at two points only. These two points are the 

swivel (the point where the rivet or screw connects 

the blades) and the cutting point. The cutting point 

moves from just beyond the swivel to the tip as the 

scissors are closed. The blades are prevented from 

meeting at any other points by giving them a slight 

horizontal and vertical curve away from each other 

during manufacture. 

In order to ensure that the blades meet correctly, 

the holes must be drilled to within one tenthousandth 

of an inch (about one four-hundredth of 

a millimeter) of the correct position. The position of 

the blades is inspected visually to see if the blades 

meet evenly. If not, a portion of one blade will 

overlap the other. This defect is known as a wing. 

The tips are also inspected to ensure that they meet 

evenly, without a gap between them or any overlap. 

Because even dull scissors are able to cut paper 

adequately, quality scissors are tested on tough 

synthetic fabrics. Sharpness is tested by making sure 

the blades cut the fabric rather than tear it. Strength 

is tested by cutting through multiple layers of fabric.

The blades should come together with a constant 

pressure during cutting. 

The consumer is responsible for maintaining the 

quality of the scissors. Scissors should only be used 

to cut the materials for which they were designed. 

Electroplating 

Some of the scissors are Gold electroplated while 

some others are chromium or nickel plated. 

Gold plated Scissors 

They should be oiled and sharpened regularly, and 

the screw should be adjusted as necessary. Scissors 

should be stored in a closed position. Setting down 

scissors in an open position is the most common 

cause of dull blades. 

Containers for plating 

Nickel plating 

* Systems Design requirements 




23

Labeling and Packaging 

Labeling and Packaging is done once the scissors are 

ready after polishing and Finishing. The Scissor 

blades are oiled for retaining the sharpness of the 

blades in a packed state. 

Printed Cardboard boxes with Company name are 

used for Packing. 

The company stickers are added and the scissors are 

Wrapped in butter paper and put into polybags. 

* Graphic Design and printing potential exists 

* The cardboard boxes need to be 

replaced by water proof and unbreakable 

material 




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Macro Parameters 

* Spatial and systems Design requirements for High grade / Volume manufacturing 

The Meerut Scissors Industry cluster has a 100 small-scale units employing around 1000 people. In addition, the 

cluster has around 300 household units employing another 1000-1500 people. The estimated turnover of the 

cluster is around Rs 10 crores. The cluster is located around Peeramal market, Kanch ka phool, Khair Nagar, 

Ghantaghar, Kareem Nagar, Kotla and Kareemwala areas. Scissors manufacturers are also present in nearby 

villages like Mawana, Vahasuma, Parikhitgarh adi, Bara Gaon and Chota Gaon. The major products are 8" to 18" 

copper and silver scissors. Copper, steel and silver are the main raw materials required for manufacturing of 

scissors, which are available near Meerut city. There are two associations of scissors manufacturers. The cluster 

has been growing at a slow rate of about 3-4 percent. The only association in the cluster is Scissor Manufacturers 

Association. 

Product Scope 

In the recent years, the cluster has seen a decline in the demand for scissors of sizes 10” and below, due to an 

inflow of imported scissors. The 10” and below segment is primarily of household users. On the other hand, the 

demand has increased for scissors of bigger sizes, which are supplied to garment manufacturers. The cluster has 

the potential for recapturing the household segment partially, provided the quality of scissors is improved. More 

specifically, hardness and sharpness are the two issues to be tackled. 




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Challenges 

1. The cluster is heavily dependent on traders both for raw material and sales, often leading to distress sales 

2. The Raw materials being used are usually mixed metal scrap from Industries, resulting in quality issues. 

2. Shortage of electricity has also led to a problem of underutilized capacities, thereby reducing profits. 

3. The manufacturers are also concerned with fluctuation in raw material prices and inconsistent supplies, over the 

last two years. 

Potential for intervention 

The cluster is very tightly controlled by the traders. Intervention is required for technology up gradation and quality 

control for recapturing the lost market and future growth. Design development and Product diversification is also 

required. 




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Design Analysis 

Ergonomics 

As a tool in daily use the ease of handling of scissors is given prime attention. The tool should feel comfortable in 

every user's hand, and the user should not get tired of utilizing the tool for hours on end. This is the role played by 

the shaping of the scissors. The shapes of the blades as well as that of the handles are designed with this goal in 

mind. This is why scissors with which the user is cutting on a table are angled, nail scissors follow the shape of the 

nail, and embroidery scissors are extremely pointed, etc. Furthermore the shape of the handle is crucial to insure 

that various user hands are equally at ease in performing the function for which the scissors were designed. Shape 

and material are the key contributors to ease of use. 

1. Shape of the blades 

Based on the need for a variety of applications numerous shapes of blades have been developed over time. So, for 

example, scissors to cut a wick have an area to catch the cut-off wick; hat maker's scissors are bent to 

accommodate the shape of the hat; wall papering scissors are angled in such a way that it becomes unnecessary to 

lift the scissors from the cutting surface. 

2. The handle 

The shape of the handle has to follow the shape of the hand and must be able to smoothly transfer the strength of 

the hand to the cutting edge. The large the area for the finger, the more comfortable the scissors will feel. The 

closer the shape of the handle is to the hand, the easier it is to "handle" the tool with utmost precision. In addition 

to ease of handling for a variety of users, the user's preference, left or right hand, also becomes a challenge. Some 

producers attempt to produce scissors that are truly ambidextrous. In particular the newest synthetic materials 

make it possible to produce a variety of very comfortable handles. Two-component handles with their fused soft 

rubber inserts offer a maximum of comfort for each individual hand. 

Durability 

Durability is not just an ethical and environmental issue for good scissors. Each and every tool has a price, and 

requires a certain getting used to. Simply from an economic point of view a tool should have a long life. Longevity 

in scissors is determined through meticulous manufacturing (precision, maximum hardness, minimal wear and 

tear) and servicing potential (grinding and adjusting). 

1. Meticulous manufacturing 

The manufacture of scissors is rigorous precision work. The selection of materials is just as important as the actual 

production process on precision equipment. Specialists highly skilled in their field of work are required in India for 

Handmade scissors. What is needed is greater ongoing development of products and production methods which 

needs to be brought about a know-how that is yet to improve the present product. 

2. Maintenance 

Due to the fact that the blades of scissors are continuously in contact a certain wear and tear is inevitable, and 

sooner or later they need to be serviced. Just grinding the edges is not enough. In some cases the scissors need to 

be taken apart and re-adjusted. This is why good scissors have a screw that allows for disassembly and re- 

adjustment. Inexpensive scissors cannot be adjusted as the blades are riveted together. High quality scissors 

should be only scissors with screws. 




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Technology 

The technology presently used is geared towards hand production of smaller volumes due to which prices of the 

Scissors made in Meerut are higher. While the market has seen cheaper and smarter scissors in striking packaging 

from China, Korea and Taiwan 

As the most important aspect of quality control for scissors is the proper alignment of the two blades. In order for 

scissors to cut smoothly, the blades must meet at two points only. These two points are the swivel (the point 

where the rivet or screw connects the blades) and the cutting point. The cutting point moves from just beyond the 

swivel to the tip as the scissors are closed. The blades are prevented from meeting at any other points by giving 

them a slight horizontal and vertical curve away from each other during manufacture. 

This is mainly controlled by Hand and Hand tools are used to adjust the balancing and setting of the two blades. 

Good scissors should always close smoothly with a minimum of effort. High quality hair scissors have a closing 

pressure of approximately 20 grams 




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To ensure the ease of handling, all imperfections have to be minimized. Friction occurs when two surfaces are 

moved against one another. In other words, the inside of the blades and the screw in its bearing. Through friction 

and twist (see above) the blades only come into contact in two places during the cutting action - at the shank, just 

behind the screw and at the point where the two blades meet. This function increases pressure on the cutting 

edges and considerably reduces friction resistance. 

To further decrease this friction, the points of contact are polished (smooth surface = minimal friction) and oiled. 

To further increase smoothness a bearing is placed between the screw head and the body. These bearings range 

from simple synthetic washers to elaborate mini roller bearings like those found in precision tools. 

Appearance 

Last but not least, visual impact is also the hallmark of good scissors. This criterion is not limited to the clean finish 

of the surface, but also to the total design concept. 

1. The finish 

Good scissors are always carefully and evenly ground and polished. The clean, brushed satin or high gloss polish of 

the steel surface is a clear indication of the care that has been taken throughout the entire production process. 

2. The design 

Presentation and appearance, the appealing good looks of scissors, which are used on a daily basis, should be 

enjoyable and pleasing to the eye. Also the manufacturers should have the courage to create new concepts 

3. The packaging 

Good quality packaging is crucial to sales and marketing in markets. The consumer is attracted to a product by its 

graphic design and packaging materials quality. Careful thought needs to be given to these by the Industry. 




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Design Intervention Areas 

1. Raw Material 

The Meerut Scissors Industry mostly uses scrap metal for the scissors it produces. The scrap is collected from 

different sources and is not consistent in nature or quality. This needs insightful change, to match with other 

production technology changes. 

Use of improved quality Raw material in consistent lots, can give a quantum jump to the quality of the final 

product. 

2. Technology Development 

The technology in Meerut Scissors Industry presently used is developed for smaller volumes by using select hand 

processes and scrap material. Due to which the quality and selling price of the Scissors made in Meerut are lower. 

While the market has been flooded by inexpensive and smarter scissors in striking packaging from other countries, 

The sales of these have adversely affected the sales of the Scissors produced in Meerut. The technology for 

stainless steel scissors could also be one of the technologies developed. 

Possible Design development and product development, and process development projects in the Industry could 

yield marked results in bringing up the sales. 

3. Packaging and Graphic Design 

Packaging is crucial to sales and marketing in markets. The consumer is attracted to a product by its graphic 

design and packaging materials quality. Careful thought needs to be given to these by the Industry. 

Possible Packaging Design development and also Graphic design development projects in the Industry could yield 

remarkable results. 

4. Design for Compliance and Safety 

Design for Safety and Compliance, a very important area of the Industry anywhere is another area for Design 

Intervention in Meerut Scissors Industry. 




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5. Design of Processes and Systems Design 

Developing workable processes, space and sequential planning for maximum output , maximum efficiency, better 

finishing and better accuracy to avoid manufacturing losses , man power losses, optimum working conditions and 

proper storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention. 

6. Design of Safety gear and Work Apparel 

Most hazardous work areas and jobs require proper working gear and safety measures for the different body parts. 

Especially the eyes, while grinding; the hands; the feet. This is another very important area of Design Intervention. 

7. Creative Designs using the Metal Scrap 




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Future Design & Development possibilities 

There are many different kinds of scissors, shears, blades and razors which are needed in the market- domestic as 

well as global, besides other metal products. The Meerut Scissors Industry can cater to these other similar product 

requirements by developing the capacity required to produce more specialized and specific function scissors, and 

by diversifying the product range. 

The Industry can also look at similar technology needing products in steel and Brass which can be manufactured in 

Meerut. To tide over lean periods or slump in orders for scissors. 

Specialized scissors include sewing scissors, which often have one sharp point and one blunt point for intricate 

cutting of fabric, and nail scissors, which have curved blades for cutting fingernails and toenails. Special kinds of 

shears include pinking shears, which have notched blades that cut cloth to give it a wavy edge, and thinning 

shears, which have teeth that thin hair rather than trim it. 

Safety Scissors These have blunt ends and blades encased in plastic so the child cannot injure himself. The 

modern ones are a great improvement over the all metal school scissors that were once popular. The new ones are 

almost as good as "grown-up" scissors in their cutting capability. 

Larger scissors with sharper points are the standard office and home scissors. Most people use these scissors for 

tasks such as clipping coupons from the newspaper, as well as other general uses around the home. They may be 

plastic with steel blades or all metal 

Surgical scissors, a pair of surgical scissors has a design that facilitates sterilization, with no cracks or pits for 

bacteria to hide in, and construction durable enough to hold up to considerable heat in the autoclave. Some may 

have padded handles and other features to make them easier to use, including handles tailored to both left and 

Right handed surgeons. A high degree of control is critical with surgical instruments, and thus they are very 

carefully engineered to work optimally. 

Dissecting Scissors Metzenbaum scissors are a type of surgical tool typically used to cut delicate soft tissues. Not 

only are they the most commonly used scissors for cutting tissue, but they are designed only to be used for that 

purpose. Because of their specific function, they sometimes are called Metzenbaum 

Micro scissors are medical scissors that are mostly used for tissue or suture cutting. Unlike other medical 

scissors, they do not have right or left hoops, so any surgeon, whether right of left-handed, can use micro scissors. 

This versatility makes micro scissors an indispensable part of any operating room. In addition, these scissors are 

ideal for hard to reach places, since they are small and extremely sharp. 

Shears Scissors are cutting instruments consisting of a pair of metal blades connected in such a way that the 

blades meet and cut materials placed between them when the handles are brought together. The word shears is 

used to describe larger instruments of the same kind. As a general rule, scissors have blades less than 6 in (15 cm) 

long and usually have handles with finger holes of the same size. Shears have blades longer than 6 in (15 cm) and 

often have one small handle with a hole that fits the thumb and one large handle with a hole that will fit two or 

more fingers. There is a possibility for the Meerut to enter into the shears market. 

Razors Razors with Plastic or metal handles used by Barbers, which have a demand in local and rural markets can 

also be produced by the press cut methods in steel at Meerut. 

Metal Hand tools The Hand tools required for the production of Scissors and for other Industries , could also be 

manufactured in Meerut, with some machines and skills added to the already available technology. 




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Metal Jewellery Metal scrap from Scissors production can be used for making New age jewellery and can be 

produced by the Meerut scissors manufacturers. There is a possibility of a very large market for jewellery of this 

kind. 

Metal Hardware for Bags and Fashion Accessories is another requirement area and Designers can play an 

important role in developing Quality Designs of Hardware in Brass and steel required by the markets can be 

produced by the Meerut Scissors Industry. 

Decorative Metal furniture can also be produced at Meerut, using metal as well as the scissors scrap. 

Catalogue and Website Design is a requirement and Designers can play an important role in developing 

graphics and communication materials for the Meerut Scissors Industry. 

Research and Development 

Constant Research and Development Is the strength of every Industry, and the only way to get ahead and make 

profits and sustained growth. The areas which require constant attention and up gradation in the Meerut Scissors 

Industry are: 

1. Product Design Development 

2. Product Diversification 

3. Product Up gradation 

4. Technology Up gradation 

5. Production processes Up gradation 

6. Die making 

7. Raw material alternatives 

8. Graphics 

9. Packaging 

10. Waste material use 

11. Development of Usage of Alternative sources of Energy 

12. Marketing strategies and Communication 

13. Training 

14. Power saving devices 

15. Time saving processes 

Marketing & Competition 

In the recent years, the cluster has seen a decline in the demand for scissors of sizes 10” and below, due to an 

inflow of imported scissors. The 10” and below segment is primarily of household users. On the other hand, the 

demand has increased for scissors of bigger sizes, which are supplied to garment manufacturers. The cluster has 

the potential for recapturing the household segment partially, provided the quality of scissors is improved. More 

specifically, hardness and sharpness are the two issues to be tackled. 

The household consumer looking for a better looking product, and better packaging, is attracted to the imported 

glistening steel and attractively packaged Imported product. The professional consumer and the highly specialized 

requirements of the Medical field, cannot find the technically perfect product they are looking for, from Meerut. 




33

Design Audit of Scissor manufacturing 

Units at Meerut 

1. Name : Munco Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Mohammad Alam 

Address : Zakir Colony, Meerut 

Product : Barber Scissors 

Turnover : 6 Lakhs / Annum 

Design Audit : 1. The unit mostly uses scrap metal for the scissors it produces. The scrap is collected 

from different sources and is not consistent in nature or quality. This needs to change, to match with other 


2. Developing workable processes, space and sequential planning for maximum output, maximum 

efficiency, better finishing and better accuracy to avoid manufacturing losses, man power losses, optimum 

working conditions and proper storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention required by the 

Unit. 

3. Packaging is crucial to sales and marketing in the markets for the unit. The consumer is attracted to a 

product by its graphic design and packaging materials quality. Careful thought needs to be given to these 

by the Unit. 

4. The unit requires Designed workstations for working the blanks, as well as finishing and packing. 

5. The unit can also produce furniture or Jewellery from scissors waste. 

2. Name : 3 Star Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Zahid 

Address : Kotla street , Kanchi wali Gali, Meerut 



Design Audit : 1. The manufacturing technology needs up gradation for a better product. Product 

diversification can be beneficial. Better grinding and chamfering machines are required by the unit. 

2. Developing efficient spaces and sequential planning for maximum output, maximum efficiency, better 

finishing and better accuracy to avoid manufacturing losses, man power losses, optimum working 

conditions and proper storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention required by the Unit. 




34



by the Unit. 

4. The unit requires proper workstations for working the blanks, as well as finishing and packing 

3. Name : Ayub Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Ayub 

Address : Gram Hasanpur, Garh Road, Meerut 


Turnover : 3.5 Lakhs / Annum 


from different sources and is not consistent in nature or quality. 




Unit. 

3. Research and development as well as better grinding machines are required 


product by its graphic design and packaging materials quality. 

5. The unit requires Designed workstations and safety clothing 

6. Packaging and Graphics designs can be used for enhancing the sales of the product. 

4. Name : Shiekh Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Sharif Ahmed 

Address : 136 Sabun Giran, Meerut 

Product : Tailors Scissors 


Design Audit : 1. Developing workable processes, space and sequential planning for maximum output, 

maximum efficiency, better finishing and better accuracy to avoid manufacturing losses, man power 

losses, optimum working conditions and proper storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention 

required by the Unit. 

2. Safety clothing and better grinding machines required. 




35



5. Product diversification can increase the demand for the products from the unit 

5. Name : Nasir Forz and Casting 

Owner : Mr.Mohammad Sadiq Faifi 

Address : 191 Hata Abdul Kyum, Bagpat Road, Meerut 

Product : Tailoring Scissors 



from different sources and is not consistent in nature or quality. The steel blanks are casted elsewhere 

and then brought to the unit for casting of handles in Brass, in the process adding to the cost per unit. 




Unit. 

3. The unit requires planned casting area and safety clothing. 


5. The Unit can diversify to make Hardware for fashion accessories and lifestyle products. 

6. Name : Unique Trading Company 

Owner : Mr. Naushad Ali 

Address : Islam Nagar, Maliana, Meerut 




diversification can be beneficial. advanced Injection molding machine might be introduced for good quality 

plastic handles, giving competition to the Chinese product in the market. 







36



by the Unit. 

4. The unit needs to invest in safety measures and special clothing for the workers 

7. Name : Eagle Manufacturing Company 

Owner : Mr. Mohammad Nadeem 

Address : Pillckhri Road, Meerut 










8. Name : Farman Kanchi Udyog 

Owner : Mr. Farmanuddin 

Address : Shyam Nagar, Meerut 




from different sources and is not consistent in nature or quality. 




Unit. 

3. Packaging is crucial to sales and marketing in the markets for the unit. Careful thought needs to be 

given to this by the Unit. 





37

5. The unit can also produce high quality hardware for fashion accessories, as well as jewellery , to 

diversify. 

9. Name : Roxy Scissors Company 

Owner : Mr. Mustaq Ahmed 

Address : Guzri Bazaar, Meerut 










5. Metal furniture can be manufactured by the unit for further growth 

10. Name : Fancy Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Irshad 

Address : Tarapuri, Meerut 

Product : General Scissors, Tailoring , Barber Scissors, Electroplating 



from different sources and is inconsistent in nature and quality. 


efficiency, better finishing and better accuracy, storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention 





by the Unit. 





38


11. Name : Insha Creations 

Owner : Mr. Tabassum 

Address : Islamabad, Meerut 

Product : Tailoring Scissors , Barber Scissors 

Turnover : 3.5 Lakhs / Annum 








12. Name : Myco Industries 

Owner : Mr. Irfan 

Address : Islamabad, Meerut 

Product : Kitchen, General Scissors with Plastic handle 



diversification can be beneficial. advanced Injection molding machine might be introduced for good quality 

plastic handles, giving competition to the Chinese product in the market. 






by the Unit. 

4. The unit needs to invest in safety measures and special clothing for the workers 




39

13. Name : Aamir Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Aamir 

Address : Teer Gran, Meerut 









Unit. 



by the Unit. 


5. The unit can also produce high quality furniture , for further growth. 

14. Name : Ayub Rolling Mill 

Owner : Mr. Ayub 

Address : Partapur, Meerut 



Design Audit : 1. Sequential planning for maximum output, maximum efficiency, better finishing and 

better accuracy to avoid manufacturing losses, man power losses, optimum working conditions and proper 

storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention required by the Unit. 



4. Product diversification can increase the manufacturing from the unit, for increased turnover 




40

15. Name : Max Trading Company 

Owner : Mr. Parvez 

Address : Nakkarchayan, Meerut 

Product : Barber , Tailor Scissors 



from different sources and is inconsistent in nature and quality. 

2. Developing workable processes, space and sequential planning for maximum output, and proper 

storage etc. are some other areas for Design Intervention required by the Unit. 


4. Packaging is crucial to sales and marketing in the markets for the unit. 



16. Name : Zig Zag Scissors 

Owner : Mr. Ashwaq 

Address : Gram Hasanpur, Meerut 

Product : Zig Zag Scissors 








Unit. 



5. Product diversification can increase the manufacturing , for increased turnover. 




41

Suggestions for Industry and 

Business growth 

1. Credit facility should be made available to all the Manufacturers, on the same 

concept as the Kisan credit facility. Manufacturers should also be provided with credit cards 

for a limited amount, for buying Raw material or buying machines and equipment, giving 

them the advantage of picking up larger orders from the market. 

The Meerut Scissors manufacturers as well as the other Manufacturing associations from 

other sectors should work on this possibility. 

2. A Raw material Bank needs to be created for the Scissors producers. 

3. Electric Power supply situation needs improvement 

4. Business development Training; Machine operators training; Exposure to international 

manufacturing techniques; Full Automization of production for stainless steel Scissors ,as 

well as Die making and Tools making training needs to be organized for the sector. 

5. Testing Labs required in Meerut for Quality grading needed for exports of Scissors. 

6. Due to exposure to toxic substances and hazardous nature of the Industry proper 

Insurance coverage is required for the Labor in the form of subsidized Health 

cards . 

7. Technology Obsolescence needs to be planned for, with introduction of safer and 

better grinding, chamfering machines, forging chambers and processes etc. 

8. The growth of the local Industry depends on competitive prices in the markets vis a vis 

imported scissors . Recommendations are for increasing the Excise duty on the 

Imported scissors. 




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SCISSORS_MEERUT_DESIGN_CLINIC_ WORKSHOP_Full_Report

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