In this video, we explain what the picker does on an embroidery machine and how it affects trim length, or the length of thread tail left after the machine trims. We note that this adjustment should only be made when necessary. While the theory is simple, the adjustment can be difficult in practice, so we begin by removing the two Phillips head screws that hold the cover around the bobbin area to get a better view of the mechanism.
We then show the first adjustment point at the stop, where a 1.5 millimeter Allen head screw and nut allow us to raise or lower the setting. This changes the throw of the picker. If the picker stays in contact longer, more thread wraps around and the trim length becomes longer. If we tighten the screw to raise the stop, the picker stays further out, less thread wraps around, and the trim length becomes shorter. This is the first adjustment we always try.
We also cover the second adjustment using the two screws that control the picker throw directly. After loosening these screws, we can hold the assembly stationary and adjust the picker in and out as well as up and down. Again, keeping the picker in longer creates a longer trim length, while moving it so it comes out sooner creates a shorter trim length.
Finally, we explain how to evaluate the result after the wiper comes down, grabs the thread, and pulls it into the velcro strip. The trim length is the distance between the end of the velcro strip and the end of the thread tail. We show examples of long, medium, and short trim lengths, with the most desired length on most embroidery machines being about one-quarter to one-half inch past the velcro strip.
If you’re dialing in trim length and thread tails, matching it with quality embroidery thread is a practical next step.