There are a few things you need before starting to shear an object in Illustrator:

  1. A shearsaw or other sharp object to cut the object into thin strips.
  2. A straight edge to help guide the strips as they are cut.
  3. A bowl or other container to catch the strips as they fall and prevent them from getting on the ground or on your work surface.
  4. A cloth, paper towel, or other piece of absorbent material to keep the strips clean and dry while they are being sheared.