I wasn't sure exactly how to word this topic title, but here's my problem:
I am making a quilt for my new soon-to-be-born granddaughter, and I decided to put a decorative quilt stitch (about an inch wide) inside a narrow 1.5" border. Well, despite having done a 'mock-up' of it before actually quilting the stitch into the quilt, I decided (after it was totally done, of course!) that I hated how it looked.
So, have painstakingly removed the stitches and have the needle holes in the fabric.
What is the easiest method to remove these? I had thought I would wet the fabric, then press it.

Any better ideas?

that's the only way i know how to do it

I think steam will do it. Also I think when it's washed it should close those holes up.

I always run the point of a needle or pin over the holes to close them up. Not sure how large of an area you are doing.

That happened to me the other day when I tried to FMQ some borders. It looked awful. I thought it was ruined but some starch and some steam and it was back to good. I presume they'll dissappear all together when it's washed.

I also found out from these kind people that higher thread counts in your fabric can leave larger holes and that having a needle that is dull or meant for heavier fabric can also do that.

you're all so smart

if the holes still stay, you might think of getting some grograin ribbon (soak it to shrink) and applique that down the border over the holes. or even could fold a strip of binding and stitch that down, mitering corners as you go around. should work well if it comes to that.

Wash it! It always works for me!

Hug

I have removed millions of stitches and once washed they have all closed up back to normal.

I use my fingernail instead of a pin or needle. I find the point is too sharp and can snag the fabric.

Thank you for your ideas. I'll give them a try.