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-   -   Expert seam rippers (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/expert-seam-rippers-t104868.html)

bonniebusybee 03-05-2011 11:06 PM

I'm working on a quilt which has been giving me fits, and is making me use my seam ripper overtime. I've used different methods for different fabrics, but this time figured out (on my own!) the best way for this quilt is the way it's explained in the tutorial in Sherri-B's reply, the first one after your question. It's been a real time-saver for me.

Gee, I thought I had a bad case of dumb, but maybe not!

ljgraham 03-06-2011 01:36 PM

I have also used my 1/4 inch rotary cutter, to cut the thread between the seams. You have to keep the fabric taut, but it works like a razor so be very-very careful. Try it on something you don't care about first to get the hang of it.

Jbarrow 03-06-2011 02:29 PM


Originally Posted by dungeonquilter
I actually use the seam ripper to pull out every stitch, after using it to cut the thread every 4-5 inches.
And I must say, I am getting very good at it with all the practice I get. LOL

I usually do this also...then I don't have all those short threads to remove....also less likely to poke hole in fabric...

Olivia's Grammy 03-06-2011 03:19 PM

I must be an expert seam ripper as I never have any trouble ripping. Sad to be an expert at unsewing, huh :lol:

GrannieAnnie 03-07-2011 06:11 AM


Originally Posted by Farm Quilter

Originally Posted by SherriB
I couldn't find the video but here is a blog that explains how I rip seams. Except I cut my threads about every 5 to 7 stitches. Works like a dream!!

http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/...am-ripper.html

This is how I frog seams that are wrong. Just be sure to get all those little pieces of thread off your fabric before you re-sew your pieces together...they are the pits to try to get out when the quilt is being LA quilted and if they are left, they just look icky!

BTW, a good sticky lint roller does wonders in removing tiny bits of thread. Well worth a roll or two up and down the seam. You'll have a few stragglers (i can say it but not spell it) but that's a darned sight better than a whole seam of thread bits.

GrannieAnnie 03-07-2011 06:12 AM


Originally Posted by Olivia's Grammy
I must be an expert seam ripper as I never have any trouble ripping. Sad to be an expert at unsewing, huh :lol:

The key to being good at any craft is the willingness to rip out mistakes. I always telll people learning to knit, give it up now if you are not willing to rip out mistakes.

GrannieAnnie 03-07-2011 06:17 AM


Originally Posted by Marty
OMG I would be petrified use the rotary cutter

I got scared reading the description!

cheryl222 03-07-2011 06:51 AM


Originally Posted by quilter53
Here's something noone has mentioned yet. At least not that I have read. I was at our guild meeting the other night and one of the ladies showed us what she uses to ripout. Her husbands beard trimmer. Believe it or not, it works. It doesn''t cut the fabric only the thread and very quick. I went to WM and they had one on sale, a close-out, I think, for $9.

Harbor freight has them for about $4

CGail 03-07-2011 11:39 AM

I have made mistakes with the seam ripper. I have learned to be slower and more careful. - Cynthia

Olivia's Grammy 03-07-2011 02:24 PM

Boy, I wish I had not read this thread. I have ripped more on my latest project that any in a long time. I am getting to be an expert, darn. Wrong expert. :lol:


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