Product Guides

Tue, 14 Jun 2016 18:38:00 +0200

Clippers
Clipper Blade Care
Dog Grooming Clipper Guide
Hairdressing Clipper Guide

Scissors
Scissor Care Guide
Hairdressing Scissor Advice

Dog Grooming Scissors Advice

Sharpening and Servicing

Clipper Blade Care

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:53:00 +0200

Storage and maintenance – As with any precision equipment a little simple maintenance of your clipper blades will ensure that they remain sharp for as long as possible and are always ready for use when you next need them.

After use brush out any hair and wipe the blades with a clean rag or paper towel. Lightly oil the blades, across the tips of the teeth in particular, and wipe off any excess oil. If the blades remain fixed to the clipper always re-fit the blade guard, if supplied, to prevent possible damage to the teeth. For removable cutterheads, once the blades have been cleaned and oiled, replace them in your blade box or rack. If you do not anticipate using the blade again for a while, wrap the blade in paper towel or clean rag which will, in time, become impregnated with oil and keep moisture at bay. Blades stored in damp and humid conditions can become corroded which will lead to a loss of cutting performance.

Clipper Blade Damage

Unfortunately it is almost inevitable that, at some time, your clipper and blades may be knocked to the floor and damaged. It is all too easy to catch a foot in a trailing clipper lead and pull everything onto the floor.

In some cases no damage will occur, but often the blades can become mis-aligned, begin to wobble on the clippers in use, or sustain damage to the teeth. Most problems can be resolved but, unfortunately broken teeth cannot be fixed. It may sometimes be possible to round off the broken tooth to enable the blade to be kept as a spare for emergency use. However extreme care should be taken when using a damaged blade. If in doubt, please send the...

Clipper and Dryer Service and Repair

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 13:39:00 +0200

Diamond Edge Clipper and Dryer Maintenance and Repair Service

To maintain your clippers and dryers in top working condition in a simple maintenance routine of following the manufacturers recommendations on use and care will keep your equipment in good working condition. However after prolonged use or perhaps accidental damage, professional help is required to restore your clippers or dryers performance.

At our workshops in Brighton we service and repair all types of clippers and dryers.

Clipper Service and Repair - If required we will give a quote for work required to service and repair clippers.

Stage 1 - Test and inspect clippers to determine faults or level of service required.
Stage 2 - Strip clippers down as necessary to clean and relubricate moving parts.
Stage 3 - Replace worn or damaged components.
Stage 4 - Reassemble clipper and run on test.
Stage 5 - Re-fit blades if included with clippers and check cutting performance.
Stage 6 - Carry out PAC test to ensure electrical safety.

Click here for the Diamond Edge Clipper Repair Service.

Scissor Care

Storage and maintenance-As with any precision equipment a little simple maintenance of your scissors will ensure that optimum performance is maintained to extend their working life.

After use wipe the scissors clean with a soft cloth and apply a light coating of oil to the blades, a drop of oil to the head of the screw and under the joints, wiping off any excess oil. Oiling after use takes only a few moments and is particularly important for carbon steel scissors. Carbon steel is usually harder than stainless steel but is prone to corrosion, particularly if used or stored in humid conditions.

Store scissors in a closed position, preferably protecting the blades in a wallet or case,and either hang them or place them flat where they cannot be damaged. Avoid them being placed loose in a ‘toolbox’ where constant rifling for equipment can cause unnecessary damage.

Scissors Blade Damage

If scissors are dropped during use or are knocked onto the floor they often land with the blades open and this is likely to result in a 'nick' in the blade edge.

With straight scissors this can be felt as a resistance when closing the blade and cause a ‘miss’ in the cutting action. Continuing to use may result in further damage and unsatisfactory cutting. Damage to the blade edge is repairable in most cases.

With thinning scissors a nick can cause the blades to ‘catch’ and not close at all. DO NOT force the scissors closed as this may cause more damage or result in a broken tooth. If your thinning scissors catch and won’t close, gently...

Scissor Sharpening and Clipper Blade Sharpening Service Advice

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 13:32:00 +0200

Scissor Sharpening and Clipper Blade Sharpening Service

Diamond Edge Scissor Sharpening and Clipper Blade Sharpening Service

Inevitably your scissors and clipper blades will require sharpening and, for best efficiency and performance, it is important to keep your tools in peak condition.

The Diamond Edge Scissor Sharpening Service restores the performance of your scissors and clipper blades. We sharpen scissors and sharpen clipper blades at our own dedicated workshop in Brighton using a multi-stage process to ensure that your valuable equipment is restored to peak performance.

Scissor Sharpening- We will endeavour to sharpen scissors of all types however, if we feel that sharpening your scissors may not be worthwhile for any reason, we will contact you for further instructions.

Stage 1- Strip down & inspect scissors for wear and damage.

Stage 2- Hollow grind scissor blades when necessary, clean joints and re-assemble.

Stage 3- Clean and polish scissors and screw.

Stage 4- Edge and hone the scissor blades.

Stage 5- Add micro-serrations to scissor blades as required**.

Stage 6- Replace worn or missing stoppers. Reset scissor handles to align tips.

Stage 7 - Polish tips to remove any roughness.

Stage8 - Test for performance and lubricate joints.

**Micro-serrations are, as the name suggests,very fine grooves machined into...

Guide to Shaving Brushes

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 13:26:00 +0200

Shaving brushes may be composed of either natural or synthetic materials with the handles often being decorative and made from a variety of materials but shaped for comfort and ease in applying shaving cream or soap.

Shaving brushes are used by "wet shavers" together with a double-edged safety razor or a straight razor.

There are three key types of shaving brush ‘Fill’;

Shaving Brushes are filled with bristles and the type of bristle and the quantity of ‘Fill’ combine to differentiate the quality of the brush. A mix of synthetic and natural fibres such as nylon and boar bristles is sometimes used to combine the qualities of both natural and synthetic materials.

Synthetic fibre filled shaving brushes; Hard wearing and stiffer then a badger hair brush, and a less expensive alternative. A nylon fibre brushes is an excellent alternative to a Badger Hair brush and is a good brush to buy if you are trying wet shaving for the first time.
Boars hair filled shaving brushes; Boar's hair is considered to be as stiff as synthetic bristle, but as a natural product, has a higher water retention capacity, making it easier to work up an effective lather, (See article ‘The Perfect Shave’). However, boar's hair has a tendency to break more readily than synthetic bristles and is less hard wearing.
Badger hair filled shaving brushes; Badger hair comes in a variety of qualities. The natural material used for most shaving brushes is Badger Hair, this is because it is like human hair as it absorbs water and it is this characteristic that makes Badger Hair perfect for...

Hairdressing Scissor Advice

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 12:43:00 +0200

Scissors – Diamond Edge advises …..

When considering which hairdressing scissors to buy there are a number of factors you will need to consider. What will the scissors be used for? Will the scissors be used infrequently or be in daily or continuous use? Do you want scissors for a specific purpose? You also need to consider your own comfort, the weight of the scissors and whether you need left handed or right handed, as some scissors are made specifically for left handed users. What material will the scissors need to be made from? For example, premium hairdressing scissors are made from harder steel and are therefore more suited to heavier use, as they are likely to stay sharper for longer and can still be sharpened throughout their lifetime.

A professional Hairdresser will require a range a scissors to ensure the best results and selecting the correct scissors for the right job will improve both your performance and customer satisfaction to enable you to give great customer service. At Diamond Edge we offer a range to hairdressing scissors to suit all requirements and budgets. Click here to view our range of hairdressing scissors .

Scissor components

How...

Professional Hairdressing Product Advice

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 12:21:00 +0200

Here at Diamond Edge we often receive enquiries about our extensive range of hairdressing equipment and we are pleased to answer any queries and offer advice when choosing from scissors, clippers, brushes, combs or dryers. Our new web site has pages dedicated to advice and tips which we hope you will find of use.

We want to ensure that you get the right salon and equipment and hairdressing products for your needs, so our new product advice section is being developed to help you choose from the comprehensive range of products available from Diamond Edge. Our experts aim to make choosing simple with clear comparisons between different hairdressing equipment together with easy links into products we sell in our Hairdressing shop. We can offer tailored packages to suit your individual needs, whether it be cutting the family's hair, or equipping a new salon. Please contact us so we can put together a package to suit your requirements and budget.

We will be adding articles on specific areas of hair care over the coming weeks and months which we trust will be of use- so please bear with us while we build up our library.

In the...

Dog Breed Guide for Wren Heating Elements

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 16:42:00 +0200

BREEDS OF DOG – CHOOSING WREN LAMP ELEMENTS

The following table shows suggested element ratings for various breeds. These assume that the sleeping quarters at least are well insulated and free from floor draughts. The ratings apply for one dog, a bitch with puppies, or a litter of young pups. The recommendations take into account the height, size and hardiness of the various breeds, alternative powers being suggested in border-line cases.

The choice of heater units will depend upon the construction of the kennels and the conditions the dogs are accustomed to, but the final judgement must rest with the breeder or kennel operator. In the case of whelping bitches the unit must provide sufficient heat at floor level to keep the puppies’ warm while at the same time being suspended high enough to be well clear of the bitch. For this reason, the recommended heat ratings for certain very tall breeds are higher than might be expected for such hardy animals and can certainly be reduced where only fit, adult dogs have to be considered.

Breed

Watts

Breed

Watts

Breed

Watts

Afghan . . . . . ....

Choosing a Heating System for your Kennel or Cattery

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 16:37:00 +0200

CHOOSING A SUITABLE HEATING SYSTEM

The choice of a suitable heating system is an important matter for anyone designing, building or refurbishing a kennels or cattery. The main points to consider are:-

1. Provision of an adequate degree of warmth and comfort for the animals.

2. Reasonable capital cost, as regards both equipment and installation.

3. Reasonable running costs.

4. Ease of maintenance.

5. Floor and walls to be unobstructed for ease of cleaning.

6. A system which can be extended or modified simply if extra accommodation is added or the layout of the kennels is changed.

7. A healthy environment which minimises the risk of infection.

These requirements are, we believe, best met by the Wren infra-red dull emitter system. Infra-red dull emitters are electric heaters which are suspended, one per compartment, usually over the bed, whelping box, etc. The units emit no visible light, just a gentle penetrating downward radiant heat which warms the animals and their bedding without too much heating of the surrounding air. This is an important point because cross-infection is more likely to occur at higher air temperatures. The units are available with a wide range of heat ratings to suit different breeds, and to cater for sick animals, whelping bitches, etc. If it is necessary to change the level of heating in a compartment because of change of occupancy, etc., this can easily be done by changing elements, just as different powered electric light bulbs can be plugged into a table lamp. Also, because each individual section or compartment has its own heater, it can be switched off when not in use without affecting the conditions for other animals.

REGULATION OF HEATING POWER

Because infra-red heaters do not raise the ambient temperature appreciably, they cannot be controlled in the same way as a domestic heating system, which aims to keep the air temperature constant. However, a normal room thermostat can be used to switch the system on and off according to outside temperature conditions.

Individual heaters can be regulated up and down, if required, by using a dimmer switch as used to control the lighting level in a sitting room. In this way, a low level of heat can be provided in the daytime and full heat at night, for example, without the need for changing elements. The maximum rating of the heaters which may be controlled by each dimmer is 400 watts.

Another very satisfactory (and efficient) method of control is our Energy Regulator, which with 15 Amp capacity can control up to 3400W total of infra-red heaters – for example, 13 x 250W units or 17 x 200W and so on. The use of this unit is especially worthwhile for larger installations because electricity savings can be considerable.

Time-switches can, of course, also be used to switch the heating on and off at pre-set times and, again, a normal 15A time switch can control 3400W total of heaters.

The Wren Energy Regulator

The Wren Energy Regulator provides a convenient means of adjusting...

Exclusive Range of Wren Heater Lamps

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 16:24:00 +0200

Exclusive to Diamond Edge .....

The best selling Wren heat lamps compact units, provide safe "deep heat” for rearing and nurturing all pets and livestock – as well as its popular use as a kennel heater for dogs, and cats it is also widely used with poultry, game birds, cage birds, farm and zoo stock.

Infra-red radiant heat is absorbed direct by the animals and their bedding with the atmosphere remaining cool and healthy, reducing the risk of infection. The Wren "black heat” element provides warmth with no glare and no risk of broken glass. Two models and eight element ratings cover all requirements.

The Wren Standard - Maximum power 250W. Will cover any animal and its young up to the size of a Cocker Spaniel dog. A 29cm diameter polished aluminium reflector. Supplied complete with a virtually unbreakable heat and weather-resistant plastic element holder, safety wire guard, 2 metres heat and weather-resistant p.v.c. cable, plug and screw-in dull emitter elements available in 250, 200, 150, 100 or 80 Watts.

The Wren Major - Maximum power 400W. Will provide an area of warmth for any breed of dog, or other animal up to the size of a large dog, with their young. A 34cm...

Mars Coat King Dog Breed Guide

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 16:05:00 +0200

Dog Breed Guide for Mars Coat King
C8 = Coarse M10 = Medium F12 = Fine XF16 = Extra-fine XF20 = Extra-fine SF26 = Super-fine MW18 = Medium-wide FW23 = Fine-wide XFW30 = Extra-fine-wide.

NB: Number indicates number of blades

Dog Breed

Recommended Coat King

Dog Breed

Recommended Coat King

Airedale terrier

FW23

Gordon Setter

XFW30, M10 for feathering

Akita

MW18

Griffin Bruxellois

F12 general tidyXF20 for more cleaned off look

Alaskan Malamute

MW18

Irish setter

XFW30, M10 for feathering

American Cocker
...

Hairdressing Clippers Guide

Fri, 7 Aug 2015 13:14:00 +0200

Clippers–Diamond Edge advises …..

As with selecting any equipment, the first question to answer is what do you want the clippers to do? Professional hairdressers doing more clipper cuts may consider a more powerful style of clipper that is able to be used for long periods, and have a range of quick change blades as well as attachment combs to allow clipping to any length required. However, the traditional barber may be happy with a less powerful machine for light trimming and lining out. Small cordless trimmers are also popular for detailed trimming.

Clipper Blades-Generally supplied as a pair with an upper and lower blade, the lower blade is fixed while the smaller upper blade performs the cutting motion.There is a wide choice of blade sizes available, particularly for the more powerful style of clipper with a rotary motor, whereas the smaller clippers with an electro-magnetic drive offer a choice of clipping length with the use of attachment combs.

Attachment Combs/Guards– Are plastic combs that are fixed to the blade to allow the cutting depth to be increased.

Animal Grooming Product Advice

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 17:14:00 +0200

It can be confusing when you are buying equipment - "Should I buy thinning scissors?", "Why are there so many different sizes of clipper blades?" ………… What? How? Why? When?

Here at Diamond Edge we receive many questions across a wide range of topics that are of interest to dog groomers and we are pleased to answer any queries and help resolve those choices and dilemmas created by the What? How? Why? and When? So.... our web site has pages dedicated to advice and tips.

We want to ensure that you get the right equipment and products for your needs, so our new product advice section is being developed to help you choose from the comprehensive Diamond Edge product range. Our experts help to make choosing equipment simple with clear explanations and tips on dog grooming equipment together with links to take you to products within our Animal Grooming shop.

We can offer tailored packages to suit your individual needs, whether it be grooming your own dog at home, or equipping a new grooming salon. Please contact us and we can put together a package to suit your requirements and budget.

We will be adding helpful articles on specific areas of grooming and care for your dog over the coming weeks and months which we trust will be of use to the Dog Grooming community- so please bear with us while we build up our library.

In the meantime, we are always here to answer your questions and help as much as we can so please contact us with your queries and enquiries - we look forward to helping you.

Happy Grooming!

Mars Coat King Product Guide

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 15:43:00 +0200

Dog Coat Stripping

Stripping a dogs coat is the process of removing the dog hair that naturally dies and sheds, for most breeds this occurs around every six months. The coat of the dog comprises of two types of dog hair, the longer coarser hair that is the outer coat and the shorter softer hair found underneath. It is generally the coarser hair that sheds and needs to be removed to improve the appearance of the coat.

Stripping your dogs coat should be included in the regular grooming routine when the dog is shedding hair and in preparation for stripping the dogs coat always comb and brush the dog and carefully remove knots and tangles.

When purchasing your dog most breeders will happily advise on how to care for your puppy’s coat, so ask them about your pets coat care requirements.

The Mars Coat King

Wooden Handle

Plastic Handle

Dog Grooming Clipper Guide

Sun, 10 May 2015 15:21:00 +0200

Dog Grooming Clippers – Diamond Edge advises …..

As with selecting any equipment, the first question to answer is what do you want the clippers to do? Professional dog groomers or breeders will require robust professional clippers that are able to be used for long periods and have quick and easy to change blades to allow the clipping of all types of dog to any length required.

A pet owner with the need for occasional light use should only require a domestic clipper, however for breeds with dense and long coats, or if you have several dogs, selecting a professional machine may be a better choice.

When considering which clipper to buy, the comfort of the grip, noise level and weight are all factors in determining the right clipper for you.

Clipper Components

Professional Clippers

Rotary motor clippers which have enough power to keep driving the blades through the thickest coat. Wide range of blade sizes available which may be changed quickly and efficiently. Many are air-cooled, enabling them to be used for long periods without over heating and have removable filters to keep the hair from the inside of the machine. Shop our full range of Professional Dog Grooming...

The Perfect Shave Guide

Wed, 4 Mar 2015 13:19:00 +0200

The Perfect Shave

Shaving can be a chore or a pleasant start to the day that makes you feel awake and ready to face the world – to ensure the latter, a simple routine can make all the difference.

Step One :- Preparation.

To start preparing for your shave your beard needs to be soaked with hot water and as the hair softens as it absorbs the water and the heat relaxes muscles of the face, making shaving easier. Using a wet, hot face flannel and leaving on the face for 20 or so seconds will achieve the desired effect. Or shave directly after a hot shower or bath.

You may wish to use a pre shave treatment before shaving, particularly if you have sensitive skin and suffer from shaving rash. There are many brands of pre shave oils and when massaged into the beard these help lift the hair ready for shaving and also lubricates the skin and allows the blade of the razor to glide smoothly.

Step Two:- Shaving.

There is a wide range of branded shaving creams and using a good quality cream is essential to a good shave. Shaving cream can be applied using fingers and massaged into the beard prior to shaving. However, we would recommend using a good quality badger shaving brush (see article on different types of shaving brushes). Place a small amount of shaving cream either on a shaving bowl or pot, dip the brush into hot water and then use the brush to work up a thick creamy lather on the brush, if using shaving soap work up the lather directly from the soap. Now apply to your beard, ensuring that the facial preparation has been done and your face is wet,...

Dog Show News

Thu, 1 Jan 2015 12:13:00 +0200

We look forward to meeting with our long standing customers and getting to know new ones during the coming year when we attend the Dog Shows below;

Visit our stand for a range of great deals, some exclusives for the shows and, if you require any sharpening of scissors or clipper blades or need a clipper or dryer repaired or serviced, then you can leave them with us at the show and we will take back to our Brighton Workshop and complete the required work and then return to you by post. Check our online shop sharpening section.

Dog Show Dates 2017

Our first show for 2017 will be the big one;

Crufts. March 9^thto March 12^th2017 at the N.E.C Birmingham.

We will be in our usual position - Hall 2 Stand 72

West of England Ladies Kennel Society. April 28^thto April 30^th2017 at Malvern.

Southern Counties Canine Association. June 2nd to June 4^th2017 at Newbury.

Windsor Dog Show Society. June 29th to July 2nd 2017 at Windsor.

Richmond Dog Show Society. September 8^th...

Blog

Diamond Edge Scissors Guarantee..

Product Guides

Clipper Blade Care

Clipper and Dryer Service and Repair

Scissor Sharpening and Clipper Blade Sharpening Service Advice

Scissor Sharpening and Clipper Blade Sharpening Service

Guide to Shaving Brushes

Hairdressing Scissor Advice

Professional Hairdressing Product Advice

Dog Breed Guide for Wren Heating Elements

Choosing a Heating System for your Kennel or Cattery

Exclusive Range of Wren Heater Lamps

Mars Coat King Dog Breed Guide

Hairdressing Clippers Guide

Animal Grooming Product Advice

Mars Coat King Product Guide

Dog Grooming Clipper Guide

The Perfect Shave Guide

Dog Show News