‘Yoshioka’ Curved Topiary Shears – Yasugi White Paper Steel

Name: ‘Yoshioka’ Curved Topiary Shears – Yasugi White Paper Steel
Brand: East-West Tools
SKU: UI039
Price: 280.0 AUD
Availability: InStock

$280.00

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Precision-Crafted Curved Shears for Fine Topiary Work

Hand-forged in Ono, Hyōgo by the renowned Yoshioka Hamono blacksmiths, these 225mm curved topiary shears are ideal for bonsai shaping, hedge detailing, and refined sculpting. Crafted with Yasugi White Paper Steel (Shirogami #2), they deliver exceptional sharpness and effortless control for delicate foliage work.

The distinctive warping blade, hollow-ground with a slight curve, allows for cleaner, uninterrupted cuts. This traditional design naturally channels sap and debris away from the cutting edge, reducing friction and improving long-term performance. Despite being featherlight in the hand, these shears are forged for serious use.

Blade steel: Yasugi White Paper Steel (Shirogami #2)
Blade style: Curved, hollow-ground with sap-clearing channel
Length: 225mm
Handle: Natural oak
Finish: Hand-burnished, traditional forging marks

Also known internationally as Kihachi Curved Topiary Shears, this model represents the finest in Japanese garden tool craftsmanship. While newer versions are now offered in Aogami Blue Steel, this Shirogami edition remains a favorite for those who prioritize razor-sharp precision and the light handling feel of traditional white steel.

Combine with our Garden Tool Maintenance Kit to clean, oil, and protect your shears after every use.

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Introducing

Yoshioka Hamono - Forged for Topiary Precision

Forged in Hyōgo, Japan by the blacksmiths of Yoshioka Hamono, these curved topiary shears reflect a lineage of fine-edge toolmaking dating back to 1946. The company’s founder, Kihachi Yoshioka, began his craft post-war with hand-forged tailoring scissors, laying the foundation for a family workshop now renowned for precision garden tools. Today, Yoshioka Hamono’s shears are trusted by professional landscapers, bonsai specialists, and gardeners alike for their balance, control, and enduring sharpness.

Explore Hedge Shears

What Sets Our Tools Apart

Mass Produced Shears

Mass-produced with low-grade materials and factory finishes, these shears offer poor edge retention, imprecise cuts, and a short usable lifespan. Designed for cost, not craftsmanship.

Hand-Forged by Yoshioka Hamono

Designed for delicate shaping, these 225mm topiary shears feature hollow-ground, curved blades forged from Yasugi White Paper Steel. Light in the hand and razor-sharp, they excel in detailed trimming and fine garden work.

Yasugi Blue Paper no. 2 Steel

Yoshioka shears are forged from Yasugi White Paper Steel (Shirogami #2), a refined carbon steel prized for its purity and sharpenability. With ~1.05–1.15% carbon and exceptionally low impurities, it can be honed to an incredibly fine, precise edge — ideal for bonsai shaping and hedge detail work. Though it softens sooner than blue paper steel, Shirogami is easier to touch up with whetstones and delivers a clean, controllable cut when maintained regularly. Its fine-grained structure also reflects centuries of Japanese metalwork tradition: each blade must be heat-treated by an expert smith, ensuring tight tolerances and balanced hardness. The result is a tool built for artisans — not for shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the curved, hollow-ground blade do?

It keeps contact smooth through a cut and helps shed sap and debris, which reduces friction and preserves a clean edge on delicate foliage.

What material can these shears handle?

They excel on soft growth, hedging tips, and fine bonsai work. For thicker or very woody stems, use secateurs or loppers to avoid edge damage.

How do I maintain White Paper Steel blades?

Wipe dry after use, remove sap, and apply a light oil film. Touch up on a fine whetstone as needed and keep stones flat for consistent results.

Will the blades rust?

Yes if left wet. White Paper Steel is high carbon, so expect a patina. Dry thoroughly and oil lightly to prevent rust and staining.

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