The longer, pointed prong slips underneath the thread you want to cut, while the curved blade between the two prongs slices through it. The red ball covers the shorter prong, creating a smooth surface that can glide across the fabric without catching, piercing, or tearing it.

For longer seams, place the red ball underneath the stitches with the sharp point facing upward. Gently slide the tool forward, allowing the internal blade to cut several stitches as the rounded ball moves safely along the fabric. This can be much faster than picking out every stitch individually.

However, use light pressure and work slowly, especially with delicate, stretchy, or loosely woven materials. For precise areas, buttonholes, and tight corners, it may be safer to lift and cut one stitch at a time with the pointed end.

So the coloured ball is not merely decoration or a safety cap. It helps separate the tool’s sharp edge from the material, reducing the chance of accidental damage while making long seams easier to open.