Wang Mazi Scissor Forging Technique

The Wang Mazi Scissor Forging Technique is a renowned traditional Chinese handicraft, dating back to 1651 during the Qing Dynasty. A skilled blacksmith from Shanxi Province, known by the nickname Wang Mazi (literally pockmarked Wang), ran a scissor shop in Beijing. His exceptional craftsmanship and the distinctive name earned him fame, and by the mid-18th century, his scissors were already documented as a premier product in the capital.

The forging process is meticulous and distinctive, involving 13 stages of hot forging and 13 stages of cold working. A key step is the unique quenching with secret mixture, a proprietary heat-treatment process that produces blades which are both sharp and resilient, resistant to chipping, and easy to maintain. The scissors are made using a technique called iron-and-steel lamination, where layers of steel are bonded to wrought iron, resulting in a robust structure with strong cutting power. This makes them suitable for multiple uses and valued for their durability and practicality.

Historically, the Wang Mazi brand was officially established during the early 19th century (Jiaqing era). By the early 20th century, there were dozens of workshops producing scissors under the Wang Mazi name. Today, the craft is preserved and carried forward by Beijing Yuechang Wang Mazi Industrial & Trade Co., Ltd. The technique is passed down through both master-apprentice relationships and family lineage, ensuring the survival and continuity of this traditional skill.

Wang Mazi scissors are not only everyday tools but also serve professional needs, such as tailoring and craftsmanship. Reflecting the sturdy and functional aesthetics of northern Chinese craftsmanship, they embody a living heritage of Chinese metal forging techniques.