Unpick

To remove stitches from a piece of fabric or unfasten something that was previously fastened, often done to correct mistakes or adjust a fit. It can also refer to the process of extracting or deciphering something intricate or convoluted, such as information or a plan.

Unpick meaning with examples

• After realizing I had sewn the collar on incorrectly, I decided to unpick the seams carefully to make the necessary adjustments without damaging the fabric. This time, I took my time to ensure everything aligned perfectly before stitching it back together.
• The detective had to unpick the layers of deception in the suspect's story to uncover the truth. Each detail seemed plausible until he began to trace back their origins and connect the inconsistencies that pointed toward a hidden motive.
• When I attempted to reformat the old document, I found it easier to unpick the entire layout and start from scratch. This way, I could eliminate the clutter and present the information in a clearer, more organized fashion.
• During the knitting class, the instructor taught us how to unpick our mistakes using a special tool that removed the stitches without damaging the yarn. This skill not only saved our projects but also gave us confidence in tackling more complex patterns.