An otherwise great polo shirt can be ruined by a logo or other embroidery. Whether the embroidery is flawed or in the wrong place, or the color or design is unpleasing, several tools and techniques make it possible to remove it. It will take time and patience, however.

To remove stitches manually, start from the back of the embroidery. For large areas, put an embroidery hoop around the area. The fabric should be smooth and flat, but not pulled tight. For small areas, lay the fabric on hard surface or drape it over your non-cutting hand. Use a seam ripper or sharp curved scissors to lift and cut each thread. Do not rush as you risk cutting or piercing the fabric. Cut the threads one layer at a time. Use a magnifying glass to see small stitches and details.

For faster results, use a sharp new disposable razor or electric shaver to gently cut threads. Place the hoop around the embroidered area. Turn the fabric over and and begin cutting the threads from the back. Hold the blade perpendicular to the fabric. Go slowly to minimize damage to the fabric. Cut one layer of thread at a time.

Brush away the threads with your finger nail. Use a roll of tape, preferably duct tape or another kind that won't leave residue, to lift them off the area. Turn the shirt right side out and remove the top threads with your fingers or tweezers. Do not tug or pull on threads. Continue cutting and shaving threads from the back of the fabric until all the unwanted stitches are removed.