Ace the Oregon Barber Exam 2026 – Snip, Style, and Shine Your Path to Success!

A barber typically uses blending shears or the clipper-over-comb technique to achieve a seamless blend at the nape of the neck. Blending shears are designed to create a softer, more natural transition between different hair lengths, which is particularly important when working in areas like the nape where the hair may need to be tapered or faded. The clipper-over-comb method involves using a clipper in combination with a comb to lift and cut the hair at varying lengths, allowing for a precise blend that results in a clean finish.

This technique is favored in barbering for its ability to produce a very smooth and even look, especially necessary in detailed areas like the nape, where sharp transitions can be visually unappealing. Other tools, like thinning shears and razors, serve different purposes—thinning shears reduce bulk but may not provide the clean line desired for blending, while a razor is typically used to create texture or remove length rather than to blend. A flat iron, meanwhile, is primarily used for straightening hair and is not suitable for blending tasks.