You have a comfortable hoodie hanging in your closet and you don't want to wear it anymore because of the print on it. However, in most cases, it is possible to remove the print from a hooded sweatshirt. The process can be difficult, take some time, and sometimes you may not get the desired results. But what do you really have to lose if your options include throwing the shirt in the trash?
Some types of lettering and design on sweatshirts are easier to remove than others. For example, if you have zip-up hoodies with someone else's name embroidered on the front, it's usually pretty easy to get the letters off. If you are trying to remove a screen-printed design, it will probably be more difficult. Read on to learn how to remove a few of the most common print types from hoodies.
Embroidery
Embroidery is by far the easiest type of customization to pull off. All you have to do is cut the thread and pull it out. The hardest part is being careful not to cut the shirt itself. A seam ripper, which you can buy at any craft store, works best, but a razor or utility knife will be an effective alternative. You will also need tweezers. A lint roller is also helpful.
Start by carefully sliding the edge of the blade under the yarn on the back of the sweatshirt. It should cut the thread easily. Working in a small area at a time, cut a few strands and then pull them out with tweezers. Eventually, you will start to see a thin layer of fabric called interfacing. Remove this while it's running. When you're finished, run over the area with a lint roller to remove any remaining threads and then wash as usual.
Vinyl Designs
Vinyl designs are becoming more and more common in the production of trendy clothing. If you have a hoodie customized using heat transfer vinyl (HTV), you can usually remove the design using heat from an iron, heat gun, or hairdryer. The heat softens the vinyl and loosens the adhesive that attaches it to the fabric, making it possible to peel off.
Apply heat and then use a utility knife or razor to scrape off the edge of the design, being careful not to cut the shirt. When one edge begins to lift, grasp it with tweezers and pull with light but firm pressure. The vinyl should begin to peel off the hoodie. Do not use your fingers to peel, especially if you are heating the vinyl using an iron or heat gun, severe burns may occur.
Continue heat, scraping, and peeling until all of the design is removed. If there is any remaining adhesive residue, remove it using rubbing alcohol or petroleum jelly. Then wash the hoodie according to the washing instructions on the label.
Screenshot
Screen-printed lettering and designs are the most difficult to remove. But in most cases, you can get the job done by using nail polish remover. Be aware, though, that nail polish remover can damage the fabric or cause discoloration.
Start by applying a small drop of nail polish remover to a hidden area of the hoodie to make sure it doesn't damage the fabric. When you're ready to work on removing the design, go to a well-ventilated area outside. We also recommend wearing a face mask and protective gloves. Place a piece of cardboard inside the hoodie to protect the other side of the shirt from the harsh chemicals in the nail polish remover.
Apply nail polish remover to the print and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then gently scrub the design using a soft brush or cloth. Work as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of damage. When you're done, wash according to the washing instructions. If any traces of the pattern remain after washing, repeat the process. Due to the harsh nature of nail polish remover, we do not recommend repeating this process more than once.
Result
Methods of removing these prints from hoodies are in no way guaranteed. However, it's worth a try, especially when the other option is to throw the shirt off. Whatever print or design you are trying to print, be careful to avoid personal injury and minimize the risk of damaging the hoodie.