A concave recess (14) is provided in a member (10) that includes a portion offset from the recess (14) for use as a handle. The base of the recess (14) is provided with a concave abrasive surface (16). A projecting imperfection (18) on the surface of the golf ball (GB) is moved into the cavity (14) and against the concave abrasive surface (16). Then, the tool (10) is moved relative to the golf ball (GB) so that the abrasive material (16) will wear away the surface projection (18) on the golf ball (GB).