Quote Originally Posted by sydnie7 View Post
A good seam-ripper is your friend -- less than $5 but priceless. If you're careful, and your fabric isn't too delicate, you can insert the point between the two layers of fabric and push -- cutting the thread loops that lie between the layers, in one long motion down the length of the seam. Then use a fingernail to "scratch" the loose thread up from either side, and you're done. Little leftover bits will usually come out in the wash.

Wouldn't advise it for silk, knits, etc. but I use it when needed on denim, poly/cotton bottomweights, etc.
I've got seam rippers, and I'm not afraid of using them. The problem is that the stitches are very tight and the thread is a near perfect match for the fabric, and there are enough loops of fabric yarn on the wrong side that I don't trust myself not to get one using the seam ripper as a knife.