Sankt Vith, Belgium
Arend-Jan van Kampen
Co-founder of ESE
ESE Recognised
Eagle-Eye Scissors
Recognition Framework – Under DevelopmentESE Recognition Framework – Under Development
We don’t teach the craft.
We recognise those who master it.
ESE – European Scissors Experts aims to establish a common framework for technical competence, professional standards and recognition in the field of professional hairdressing scissor sharpening.
Our pillars
Expertise. Quality. Trust.
Expertise
Recognition must be based on demonstrated technical competence.
Quality
Professional scissors deserve methods that respect their design and construction.
Trust
Assessments and recognition decisions must be transparent, consistent and fair.
Why standards matter
Protecting Professional Scissors.
Recognising True Expertise.
Professional scissors are precision instruments: incorrect sharpening can compromise their performance, shorten their service life and cause irreversible damage.
Professional sharpening requires knowledge of
- Blade geometry
- Steel characteristics
- Sharpening methods
- Mechanical adjustment
- Quality control
The Founders
Two Experts. One Vision.
ESE was founded on 26 October 2026 by two professional scissor sharpening specialists from Belgium and the Netherlands.
ESE is run by two sharpeners who also operate their own businesses: Eagle-Eye Scissors and Kyone Service Center.
Breskens, the Netherlands
Aime Langeraert
Co-founder of ESE
ESE Recognised
Kyone Service Center
Professional Register
Find a Recognised Sharpener
The public register of sharpeners recognised by ESE, for hairdressers and barbers looking for proven expertise, across Europe & worldwide.
Recognised as part of ESE’s founding register, before the formal framework opens. Applications are not yet open.
Recognised professionals – 4 entries
Co-founder
Arend-Jan van Kampen
Eagle-Eye Scissors
Sankt Vith, Belgium
ESE Recognised
Co-founder
Aime Langeraert
Kyone Service Center
Breskens, the Netherlands
ESE Recognised
Bert Suggs
United States
ESE Recognised
Nick Vracknos
Coastal Scissor Services
Australia
ESE Recognised
Our Standards
Precision Is Not Optional.
Eight technical principles form the foundation of the ESE framework.
Blade Geometry
Bevel, semi-convex and convex edges, cutting styles and tooth designs.
Material Knowledge
Steel characteristics, hardness, wear resistance, toughness and heat treatment.
Sharpening Procedures
Preserving original geometry and minimising unnecessary material removal.
Mechanical Precision
Blade contact, alignment, pivot condition, tension and movement.
Quality Control
Inspecting the finished edge, mechanical operation and cutting performance.
Diagnosis
Identifying the actual cause of poor cutting before taking action.
Maintenance
Cleaning, lubrication, safe storage and preventive care.
Professional Integrity
Working transparently, responsibly and with respect for customers’ tools.
ESE Recognition
Expertise Must Be Proven.
ESE is not a training centre: our role is to assess, evaluate and recognise expertise.
- Theoretical assessment of technical knowledge
- Practical examination on six designated scissors
- Defined scoring criteria and critical-failure rules
Recognition status
ESE Recognition Framework – Under Development
Applications and formal recognition will become available once the assessment criteria and procedures have been approved by the founding members.
Our ambition · Across Europe & worldwide
One profession.
One shared standard.
ESE aims to establish a common reference point for professional scissor sharpening and to recognise sharpeners across Europe & worldwide.
- CollaborationWe aim to work with manufacturers, educators and leading stylists.
- IndependenceNo manufacturer or commercial partner can influence an assessment outcome.
- Careful growthDocumented standards, reliable examinations and transparent decision-making.
Follow the development
Stay informed
Professional sharpeners and potential industry partners are invited to follow the development of ESE.
Applications for recognition are not yet open.