Let's cut to the chase.

Learn how to tell if your scissors are dull or damaged—and the simple sharpening techniques that can bring them back to life.

Used for cutting paper, cardboard, fabric, string, price tags, plastic packaging—that list goes on—the scissors in your office or kitchen drawer might be the most reliable everyday tool in your house.

A sharp knife is safer, faster, and far more satisfying to use—but only if you maintain it properly. After testing electric and manual knife sharpeners on everything from chef’s knives to pocket ...