Have you ever stared at a wall of grooming tools, wondering which one to choose?
Clippers or trimmers?
Maybe you’re not even sure what the difference is.
The world of barbering can be a confusing one, with all its technical jargon and endless options.
But fear not!
In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of clippers and trimmers, exploring their similarities and differences.
We’ll even uncover the secrets behind open and closed clippers and how adjusting the lever can change your cutting game.
So, grab your comb and get ready to unlock the mysteries of these fascinating tools.
open closed clippers
Open and closed clippers refer to the position of the lever on the clippers.
When the lever is down, the clippers are considered open, while pushing the lever up closes the clippers.
Understanding the difference between open and closed clippers is crucial for achieving the desired hair length when using clippers.
The lever on clippers can be adjusted to achieve different cutting lengths, and different clipper guards can be used with the lever open or closed to achieve different cutting results.
Gradually decreasing the guard length with the lever closed can create a fade effect, while keeping the lever closed and swapping between guards provides more control and simplifies the cutting process.
It is important to check the lever position before cutting to avoid any mistakes.
Key Points:
- Open and closed clippers refer to the lever position on the clippers.
- Upward lever movement closes the clippers, while downward movement opens them.
- Understanding this difference is essential for achieving the desired hair length.
- Lever adjustment and different clipper guards can be used for different cutting lengths and results.
- A fade effect can be created by gradually decreasing the guard length with the lever closed.
- Checking the lever position before cutting is important to avoid mistakes.
open closed clippers – Watch Video
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Pro Tips:
1. Open-closed clippers, also known as surgical scissors, were first invented by Ambroise Paré, a French barber surgeon, in the 16th century. They were primarily used for amputations and other surgical procedures.
2. The term “open-closed” refers to the unique design of the clippers, which allowed them to function effectively both in an open and closed position. This versatility made them a popular tool among 18th-century barbers for trimming and shaping beards and mustaches.
3. Charles Dickens, the famous English writer, mentioned open-closed clippers in his novel “A Tale of Two Cities.” The character Sydney Carton, while disguising his appearance, uses them to alter his hairstyle, allowing him to go unnoticed by the authorities.
4. A rare and highly sought-after collectible item is a vintage set of open-closed clippers made by the renowned manufacturer George Wostenholm & Sons. These antique clippers, crafted from high-quality steel, are often valued for their intricate designs and historical significance.
5. Despite their name, open-closed clippers are often associated with secrecy and confidentiality. In certain societies, barbers would use these specialized clippers to discreetly signal their involvement in secret organizations or illegal activities to potential clients.
Distinct Differences: Clippers Vs. Trimmers
When it comes to achieving that perfectly groomed hairstyle, it is important to understand the differences between clippers and trimmers. Clippers and trimmers may seem similar, but they are specifically designed for different purposes.
Clippers are larger and more powerful, making them ideal for cutting thicker and longer hair. They are commonly used to remove bulk and create shorter lengths. Clippers often come with various guards or guide combs for adjustable cutting lengths.
On the other hand, trimmers are smaller and more precise, making them perfect for detailed work and creating sharp lines. They are commonly used for edging, shaping, and trimming facial hair, as well as for achieving precision haircuts in certain areas.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for salon professionals who want to choose the right tool for each specific job. By mastering the art of using both clippers and trimmers, they will be able to unlock the secrets of achieving that perfectly groomed look.
Clippers For Larger Areas Of Hair
Clippers are designed for cutting larger areas of hair due to their larger size and more robust motors. They excel at quickly removing significant amounts of hair and achieving consistent length all over. The wider blade and stronger motor also make clippers highly efficient at tackling thick or coarse hair. Furthermore, clippers offer a wider range of attachments and settings, providing more versatility in haircut styles.
Trimmers For Precision Cutting
Trimmers are smaller and designed for more precise cutting. They excel at detailing and shaping hairstyles, allowing salon professionals to create clean lines and intricate designs. Trimmers have a narrower range of attachments compared to clippers, but their smaller size and precision blades make them the ideal choice for fine and precise work, such as trimming around the hairline or beard.
- Trimmers are smaller and designed for precise cutting
- They excel at detailing and shaping hairstyles
- Ideal for fine and precise work such as trimming around the hairline or beard
- Narrow range of attachments compared to clippers
“Trimmers are the perfect tool for salon professionals who require precision in their cutting. With their smaller size and precise blades, trimmers are ideal for creating clean lines and intricate designs.”
Clippers For Consistent Length Or Quick Hair Removal
Clippers are the go-to tool for achieving a consistent hair length. With the lever on clippers, professionals can easily adjust the cutting length to their desired preference. Different clipper guards can also be used, either with the lever open or closed, to achieve varying lengths.
For a gradual fade effect, professionals can gradually decrease the guard length with the lever open. This allows for a smooth transition between different lengths. On the other hand, for simpler cutting processes and more control, it is recommended to keep the lever closed and swap between guards as needed.
Using clippers effectively is important for achieving a precise and desired hairstyle. Remember to always start with a longer guard and gradually reduce the length as needed. This will help avoid any unintentional mistakes and ensure a clean and professional result.
- Using clippers with the lever open allows for a gradual fade effect
- Keeping the lever closed and swapping between guards provides more control
- Start with a longer guard and gradually reduce the length for precision
- Achieve a clean and professional result by using clippers effectively.
“Using clippers effectively is the key to achieving a precise and desired hairstyle.”
Trimmers For Detailing And Shaping
When it comes to detailing and shaping hairstyles, trimmers stand out as the best choice. Their precision blades enable clean and accurate lines, making it effortless to shape and define hair. Trimmers excel in creating sharp angles, tidying up around the ears and neck, and refining edges. Their compact size and narrower range of attachments grant professionals enhanced maneuverability and control throughout the trimming process.
Clippers With Wide Range Of Attachments And Settings
One of the advantages of using clippers is the wide range of attachments and settings that they offer. Clippers usually come with a variety of guard sizes, allowing salon professionals to achieve different hair lengths with ease. These attachments are easy to snap on and off, providing flexibility and versatility in creating various hairstyles. Combined with adjustable lever positions, clippers offer the ultimate customization and control over the cutting process.
- Clippers offer a wide range of attachments and settings
- Variety of guard sizes for achieving different hair lengths
- Easy snap-on and off attachments for flexibility and versatility
- Adjustable lever positions for customization and control
Trimmers With Narrow Range Of Attachments
While clippers offer a wide range of attachments, trimmers are designed with a narrower selection. Trimmers usually come with a limited number of guard sizes, placing emphasis on precision and detail in haircutting. This narrower range enables professionals to focus on creating intricate designs and sharp lines, rather than spending time achieving consistent hair lengths throughout.
Understanding Open And Closed Clippers
Understanding the concept of open and closed clippers is crucial for achieving the desired hair length. The lever on a clipper can be adjusted to open or close the blade, which directly affects the cutting length. When the lever is down, indicating that the clippers are open, they will cut at their maximum length. Conversely, when the lever is pushed up, indicating that the clippers are closed, it will achieve the shortest cutting length possible. Checking the lever position before cutting is highly recommended to avoid mistakes and ensure the desired haircut.
Adjusting The Lever For Different Cutting Lengths
The lever on clippers plays a vital role in achieving different cutting lengths. By adjusting the lever, salon professionals can customize the length to meet their clients’ preferences.
For longer haircuts, they can keep the lever open and choose the appropriate guard size to achieve the desired length consistently.
Conversely, for shorter haircuts or more precise trimming, pushing the lever up to close the blade will ensure a shorter cutting length.
This adjustable feature allows salon professionals to accommodate a wide range of haircut styles and client preferences.
- Adjusting the lever provides customizable cutting lengths
- Keeping the lever open with an appropriate guard size is ideal for longer haircuts
- Closing the lever ensures a shorter cutting length for shorter haircuts or precise trimming.
Note: The adjustable lever on clippers provides salon professionals with the flexibility to cater to various haircut styles and client preferences.
Achieving Fade Effect And Simplifying Cutting
One popular technique in haircuts is achieving a fade effect, where the hair gradually transitions from one length to another. This effect can be accomplished by gradually decreasing the guard length with the lever open. Salon professionals can start with a longer guard length at the bottom and gradually decrease it as they move upward, creating a seamless fade effect. Conversely, for easier control and a simplified cutting process, professionals can keep the lever closed and simply swap between guards to achieve different cutting lengths. This method simplifies the process, reduces the risk of mistakes, and offers more precise control over the haircut.
The distinct differences between clippers and trimmers are essential for salon professionals aiming to achieve efficient trimming techniques. Clippers are perfect for cutting larger areas of hair and achieving a consistent length, while trimmers excel in precision cutting and detailing. By adjusting the lever on clippers, professionals can easily achieve different cutting lengths and even create fade effects. With the right tools and techniques, salon professionals can unlock the secrets of open closed clippers and offer their clients the perfect hairstyle every time.
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You may need to know these questions about open closed clippers
Should the lever be open or closed on hair clippers?
The lever on hair clippers should be open if you want to cut the hair longer and softer. This is particularly useful when starting with longer hair, as using a No. 8 guard size in the open position can help remove a lot of bulk from the hair. However, if you want a closer cut, the lever should be closed to achieve a shorter and more precise haircut. Ultimately, the position of the lever depends on the desired result and the specific style you are aiming for.
Is open or closed clippers longer?
The length of clippers, whether they are open or closed, is not determined by the position of the taper lever. Instead, the length of clippers is typically fixed and determined by the size of the blade attachments. When the taper lever is closed, it allows for a closer cut as the blade reaches its lowest cutting position. Conversely, when the taper lever is open, it cuts less hair because the blade is at its longest position. However, it is important to note that the overall length of the clippers remains unchanged regardless of the position of the taper lever.
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of open versus closed clippers in hairdressing or barbering?
Open clippers, also known as detachable blade clippers, offer several advantages in hairdressing or barbering. Firstly, they allow for versatility as different blades can be easily attached to achieve various lengths and styles. This makes them ideal for creating fades or blending hair seamlessly. Additionally, open clippers are easily interchangeable, allowing for quick and efficient blade changes during a haircut. This can save time and enhance the overall experience for both the stylist and the client.
On the other hand, closed clippers, also known as fixed blade clippers, have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage of closed clippers is that they provide a consistent and reliable cutting performance. The fixed blade design ensures a close and precise cut, which is essential for shaving or detailing work. However, the downside is that closed clippers lack the flexibility and versatility of open clippers. They usually come with a single fixed blade length, limiting their functionality for more complex haircuts or varying hair lengths.
2. How do open and closed clippers differ in terms of functionality and design, and which one is more suitable for specific hair cutting techniques?
Open and closed clippers differ in terms of functionality and design. Open clippers are typically used for bulk cutting and tapering. They have a wider blade and larger teeth spacing, making them more suitable for cutting longer hair. On the other hand, closed clippers have a narrower blade and smaller teeth spacing, which allows for more precision cutting. They are commonly used for fading, outlining, and detail work.
The choice between open and closed clippers depends on the specific hair cutting technique. Open clippers are better suited for techniques like scissor over comb, where longer hair is being cut or blended. Closed clippers are more suitable for techniques like clipper over comb, where shorter and more precise cuts are required. Ultimately, it comes down to the stylist’s preference and the style of haircut being performed.
Reference source
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ay0_vVPXYI
https://www.tiege.com/blogs/news/how-to-cut-your-own-hair-a-guide-for-men#:~:text=A%20closed%20lever%20position%20cuts,cuts%20it%20longer%20and%20softer.&text=First%2C%20choose%20the%20right%20guard,open%20position)%20on%20your%20clipper.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Barber/comments/13lebca/somebody_can_explain_to_me_lever_closed_and_lever/
https://clipphub.com/lever-closed-vs-open/
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