i started using this method many years ago. i hadn't been quilting that long, lots of unstitching to do. didn't like the fraying stretching of the edges when using seam ripper. i have a seam ripper in my little tool box, but haven't used it in over 15 years at least. i started using my applique scissors to snip every few stitches ..the bobbin side stitches on seam to be easier to lift & snip. no fraying, stretching or unintentional fabric holes since i abandoned the stitch ripper.

Nancysnotions.com has a gadget called "The Quick Ripper" for 21.99. I know that sounds like a lot but I am so glad a friend at our retreat shared hers with me. I had sewed 8 strips (2" x 44") together side by side and when I went to press them, they would not lay flat because I was having a tension problem on my machine. so I decided to rip them all out and start over (after working on my tension). I spent all afternoon ripping with my little Clover seam ripper and only got 5 strips ripped out. Then a friend said "What are you doing?" I said "Still ripping!" She said "Do you want to use mine??" I asked "What does your seam ripper do that mine doesn't?" Well she showed me. I still had 3 strips to rip and she had all 3 done in less than 3 minutes. I almost fainted. I had just spent all afternoon ripping the other 5. First thing I did when I got home was order my Quick Ripper. You will still get the little pokies but I also got one of those with the eraser type end and it still saved me tons of time. I don't know how I ever lived without the "Quick Ripper" from Nancys Notions. So worth the money I spent. Now my DH accuses me of making sewing goofs on purpose just so I can play with my Quick Ripper. I love ripping now!!

I was taught to put the little ball in between the two pieces of material as you describe and to gently push. However, I agree with you that it is easy to cut the wrong bits and so I use the method of pulling from one side and breaking off the thread and then pulling from the other side. I find it faster and less disasterous.

I have done both. It seems that, for me anyway, it depends how how small I made my stitches, will determine the success of the fast way.

Very carefully :-). I have done damage.

Same for me....

ER stitch remover scissors work great
 

I worked at a hospital ER and brought home one of the throw away small stitch remover scissors with a curved narrow cut blade. (It almost looks like a hook) They work great for snipping every 3rd to 4th stitch, then pull the bobbin thread. I like them better than a regular seam ripper.:o

I use both ways - depends on the seam and how tight the stitch and the type or weave of the fabric.. Some it is very easy to slide the scalpel - and others would be impossible. I also don't have a lint roller, I wrap a little scotch tape around a couple fingers. See?? That was a neat question! :-)

Marysewfun

Same here, also depends how much of a hurry I'm in at the time.