Abstract: A thread wiper assembly mountable to the side of a sewing machine. The thread wiper assembly is particularly advantageous with sewing machines that are equipped with a walking foot. The thread wiper is mounted sidewardly relative to the needle and includes a picker arm, that while in a retracted position, is disposed sidewardly relative to the needle and out of its path of travel. Because the thread wiper is mounted to the side of the sewing machine and sidewardly relative to the needle, the picker arm is able to traverse along a path between the needle and the walking foot without interference.