Hair Cutting Practice Checklist for Apprentices

Before the first cut

Check that your shear is the correct hand and a length you can control. Clean the blades, make sure the pivot moves normally and set up a comb and clips. Practise on a mannequin or under your educator’s supervision before applying a new movement to a client.

Work in this order

1. Section cleanly. Create straight partings and keep the working section small enough to see your guide.
2. Cut a baseline. Use controlled closures and check the line from more than one angle before moving on.
3. Try point work. Enter the ends lightly with the tips. Remove less than you think, comb through and review.
4. Add comb work. Keep the comb moving deliberately and avoid striking its teeth with the blade.
5. Explore a drawing cut. Use an edge suited to the movement and stop if the shear begins to push or snag.

The technique hub maps these movements to blade length, edge and handle choices. The advanced guide gives a closer look at each one.

End with care and a note

Wipe hair from the blade and pivot, dry the shear and put it away protected. Write down the technique you practised, what changed in the result and any tool issue you noticed. That gives your educator something specific to review next time. Use the maintenance guide if the action or cut feels different.