It is a dilemma. I have been working on removing machine embroidery from a polyester knit shirt. My son changed jobs and likes the shirt and wants the logo gone. For that fabric even with stabilizer the needles have damaged the fabric. Don’t know if this would happen on quilting cotton. I’ve worked from the back with a lighted magnifier and it is not easy. Appliqué in this case not an option. I hope you can figure out a way. Let us know how it works out