Scissors should perform almost as an extension of fingers and seamstresses should have a selection of excellent and appropriate scissors.  To be avoided are such frustrations as forcing the blades to cut, using blunt ends where only sharp points will reach, cutting in the air instead of on the table, and cramping the fingers by using uncomfortable handles or too heavy shears.  For fabric cutting, scissors should cut easily through the paper patterns, as well as layers of material.  Bent handles will keep the entire operation on the table, while straight handles will force a lifting of the scissors, pattern and fabric, resulting in sagging of the fabric and possibly an inaccurate cut.  Cutting should be done in long even strokes, blades never completely closing.  Use the scissors and shears only in ways and on materials for which they were intended, and they will last for a good number of years.