How to Use Point Cutting to Add Texture and Movement
Point cutting is a simple yet effective hair-cutting technique that adds texture, reduces bulk, and creates natural movement in various hairstyles like bobs, pixie cuts, and layered styles. By cutting hair ends at an angle with the tips of scissors, this method softens edges and blends layers seamlessly without significantly reducing length.
Key Benefits:
- Adds Texture: Perfect for creating dynamic, choppy looks.
- Reduces Bulk: Lightens thick hair for better flow.
- Blends Layers: Smooth transitions for a natural finish.
- Works on All Hair Types: Effective on wet or dry hair.
Tools You Need:
- Hair Shears: Use professional-grade scissors with sharp, fine points (e.g., Japanese steel shears).
- Combs: Fine-toothed cutting combs for precision.
- Thinning Shears: For reducing weight and bulk.
- Maintenance Supplies: Shear oil, cleaning cloth, and tension adjusters to keep tools in top condition.
Quick Comparison: Point Cutting vs. Slide Cutting
| Technique | Best For | Results | Ideal Hair Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Point Cutting | Textured, short styles | Adds texture, reduces bulk | Fine to medium hair |
| Slide Cutting | Long layers, blending | Smooth transitions | Medium to thick hair |
Point cutting is all about precision and control. Mastering this technique can elevate your hairstyling skills, creating lightweight, textured, and flowing looks for your clients.
How To Point Cut Like a Pro
Tools You Need
To achieve precise point cutting and deliver excellent results for your clients, it's essential to use professional-grade tools.
Selecting Hair Shears
The right shears make all the difference. Here are some key features to consider:
| Feature | Recommendation | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 4.5" to 5.5" | Perfect for detailed point cutting |
| Blade Type | Convex | Provides smoother cuts with less effort |
| Handle Design | Crane with forward thumb grip | Minimizes hand and wrist strain |
| Material | Japanese steel | Known for durability and long-lasting sharpness |
Saki Shears offers excellent options starting at $124.99. These shears are crafted from premium Japanese steel and feature ergonomic designs. If you're looking for more advanced features, their mid-range models (priced at $185.00 and up) include adjustable tension settings for consistent cutting pressure.
Once you've selected your shears, it's time to gather other essential tools.
Other Required Tools
In addition to high-quality shears, you'll need a variety of combs and specialized tools to complete your kit.
Essential Combs
- Fine-toothed cutting comb for precise sectioning.
- NBAA Cutting Comb I, equipped with 1cm measurement markings for accuracy.
- Carving comb for adding texture and dimension to the hair.
Specialized Tools
- Thinning shears with curved teeth for reducing weight and bulk.
- Section clips to keep hair manageable during cutting.
- Professional cleaning cloth and shear oil to maintain your tools.
The Donald Scott NYC CARVING COMB FINE is a standout tool. This versatile 3-in-1 tool combines cutting, shaping, and texturizing functions, making it a great companion for traditional point cutting techniques.
Tips for Maintenance
- Clean your shears with disinfectant after every use.
- Regularly check and adjust the tension.
- Store all tools in protective cases to prevent damage.
- Get your shears professionally sharpened once a year to maintain their performance.
Point Cutting Steps
Hair Preparation
Start by washing and drying the hair thoroughly . If working with textured or coiled hair, straighten it beforehand . Divide the hair into sections using clips or ties to ensure an organized approach.
How to Hold Your Scissors
Use the correct scissor grip for better control and safety. Place your thumb in the larger hole and your ring finger in the smaller one . Rest your index and middle fingers on the opposite blade for stability. Keep the scissors vertical with the tips pointing upward, relax your wrist, and keep your elbow close to your side.
Once you’ve got a solid grip, you’re ready to begin cutting.
Point Cutting Method
Start at the nape of the neck and work your way upward . Hold a small section of hair at a slight angle to guide your cuts and achieve a textured look. For longer hair, use a lower cutting angle (up to 45°) to create a more layered, choppy effect . Make small, precise cuts with the tips of the scissors. Aim for a cutting depth of about 1 inch (2.5 cm), or go up to 2 inches (5 cm) for a bolder, more dramatic result .
Pro tip: High-quality shears, like those from Saki Shears, can help you maintain smooth and controlled cutting motions. Mastering these techniques will add texture and movement to any hairstyle, giving your clients the dynamic results they’re looking for.
Advanced Point Cutting Methods
Point Cutting vs Slide Cutting
Point cutting and slide cutting are two essential techniques in hairstyling, each suited for different purposes. Knowing when to use them can make a big difference in achieving the desired look.
| Technique | Best Used For | Ideal Hair Types | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Point Cutting | Short styles, precision work | Fine to medium hair | Adds texture, reduces bulk, defines shape |
| Slide Cutting | Long layers, blending | Medium to thick hair | Smooth transitions, flowing layers |
Point cutting involves cutting hair ends at an angle, which helps create texture and shape in styles like bobs or pixie cuts . On the other hand, slide cutting removes weight by gliding scissors along the hair, making it perfect for creating soft, flowing layers in longer hairstyles .
Combining Cutting Techniques
Advanced hairstyling often blends point cutting and slide cutting for more dynamic results. Once you’re comfortable with basic point cutting, you can start integrating other techniques to create texture and movement .
- Use point cutting on wet hair to establish the shape.
- Apply slide cutting to blend layers seamlessly.
- Perform a dry cut to fine-tune and polish the overall look .
For thicker or curly hair, point cutting can shape the ends, while slide cutting through the mid-lengths helps reduce weight and improve flow .
Popular Style Examples
Mixing cutting methods allows stylists to customize textures for different hair types and styles. For medium to short hairstyles, point cutting adds bold texture and reduces bulk .
For curly or wavy hair, twist cutting is a great option. By working in small sections with light pressure, you can add controlled texture and movement .
Another technique, channel cutting, creates edgy, artistic looks by blending layers smoothly . For coarse, straight hair, point cutting can reduce weight and introduce movement, but it’s crucial to avoid overdoing it to maintain balance .
Solutions and Tips
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to point cutting, precision is key. Mistakes can lead to uneven results, so it's important to use the proper technique. Keep your scissors parallel to the hair for a softer finish, or adjust to a slight angle for a bolder effect .
"Point cutting is all about control. The only finger that is moving when cutting is the thumb." - Matt Swinney, ARC™ Scissors Artist
Using professional shears with slim, sharp points can help you achieve a cleaner texture.
"I like using the PARAGON II from ARC™ Scissors because the point of the shear is so thin." - Matt Swinney
Point Cutting Different Hair Types
Adjust your technique based on the hair type to get the best results:
| Hair Type | Technique Adjustment | Expected Results |
|---|---|---|
| Thick Hair | Use deeper point cuts to reduce bulk | Lighter feel with better movement |
| Fine Hair | Minimal point cutting; lean toward blunt cuts | Preserves volume and density |
| Curly Hair | Work on dry, straightened hair | Creates space for natural curl pattern |
For fine hair, the goal is to keep the density intact, especially from roots to ends . Thick hair, on the other hand, benefits from deeper cuts to reduce heaviness and add flow . When working with curly or textured hair, always straighten and dry it first to ensure accuracy .
Client Hair Care Tips
To maintain the textured look achieved with point cutting, proper hair care is essential. An upward cutting motion during the service helps align with the hair's cuticle, reducing frizz . Advise clients to avoid overdoing texturizing treatments - point cutting should typically be done every third haircut at most . This ensures the style remains fresh without compromising the hair's integrity.
Conclusion: Point Cutting Success
Key Takeaways
Point cutting is a technique that demands precision and preparation. Success hinges on attention to detail, with factors like the depth of cuts and scissor motion playing a crucial role. Keeping scissors parallel to the hair shaft is especially important for managing coarse, straight hair effectively .
Here are the basics to focus on:
- Strategic sectioning of the hair
- Proper scissor angles
- Controlled, accurate cuts
- Frequent balance checks
These steps form the foundation for improving your technique through consistent practice.
Practice Areas
Improvement comes with practice. Focus on specific areas to refine your skills:
| Practice Area | Technique Focus | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Hair | Parallel cuts | Reduces weight, adds movement |
| Thick Hair | Deeper point cuts | Removes bulk, adds texture |
| Fine Hair | Minimal, precise cuts | Maintains density, creates subtle texture |
Experiment with varying cut lengths to add natural texture while keeping the overall style balanced . Regularly evaluate your work to ensure precision and consistency.
Tools of the Trade
The right tools make all the difference. Look for shears with these features:
- Sharp, fine points for precision
- Ergonomic handles for comfort
- Durable steel construction for longevity
- Adjustable tension for better control
"Point cutting is all about control. The only finger that is moving when cutting is the thumb." - Matt Swinney, ARC™ Scissors Artist
"I like using the PARAGON II from ARC™ Scissors because the point of the shear is so thin." - Matt Swinney
With practice and the right tools, point cutting can elevate your styling skills, creating dynamic, client-approved results.
