If you're into embroidery — whether as a hobbyist or a business owner — understanding embroidery file formats is non-negotiable.

Why?
Because your embroidery machine can’t read just any file. It requires a specific format loaded with stitch instructions, not just an image or vector.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• The most popular embroidery file formats
• Which machines use each format
• Tips for converting and managing files
• How to get the right format every time (even if you start with a JPG or PNG)

Let’s break down the mystery of embroidery file format types so you never run into a “file not supported” message again.

What Is an Embroidery File Format?

An embroidery file format is a digital file that stores stitch data — including:

• Stitch type and direction
• Color stops and thread changes
• Jump stitches and trims
• Hoop size, scale, and layout

Unlike a regular image file (like PNG or JPG), embroidery formats are made to communicate stitch-by-stitch instructions to machines.

Top Embroidery File Formats and Their Compatible Machines

Here are the most widely used embroidery formats and the machines that read them:

1. PES — Brother & Babylock Machines

• File Extension: .pes
• Used By: Brother, Babylock
• Software Support: PE-Design, SewArt, Hatch, Ink/Stitch
• Ideal For: Home embroidery, small businesses
• Why It’s Popular: Easy to find software, user-friendly

If you own a Brother SE1900 or Babylock Verve, you’re in PES territory.

2. DST — Tajima & Industrial Machines

• File Extension: .dst
• Used By: Tajima, Barudan, Ricoma, ZSK, SWF
• Software Support: Wilcom, Pulse, Hatch, Embird
• Ideal For: Commercial embroidery
• Key Feature: Widely accepted across machine brands

DST is considered the universal format for professional embroidery machines.

3. JEF — Janome Machines

• File Extension: .jef
• Used By: Janome Memory Craft 500E, 550E, Horizon series
• Software Support: Janome Digitizer MBX, SewArt
• Specs: Stores color data and stitch patterns

If you’re using a Janome machine, .JEF is what you’ll need.

4. EXP — Bernina & Melco Machines

• File Extension: .exp
• Used By: Bernina, Melco
• Software Support: Bernina ArtLink, Wilcom
• Note: Requires matching thread chart (.inf or .txt) for colors

Bernina owners should check whether their machine also requires .INF files along with .EXP.

5. VP3 — Husqvarna & Pfaff Machines

• File Extension: .vp3
• Used By: Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff
• Software Support: Premier+ Embroidery, Embrilliance, TruEmbroidery
• Strength: Supports multiple thread palettes

The newer format for modern Pfaff and Husqvarna models.

6. XXX — Singer Embroidery Machines

• File Extension: .xxx
• Used By: Singer Futura series
• Software Support: Singer PSW, TruEmbroidery
• Legacy Status: Older but still supported
  
  

Still in use by many home users with older Singer machines.

7. HUS — Husqvarna Viking (Legacy Format)

• File Extension: .hus
• Used By: Older Husqvarna machines
• Replaced By: VP3 on newer models
• Good For: Retro designs or legacy file collections

HUS is fading out but still useful for people using older machines.

8. PHC & PEC — Babylock & Brother Machines (Variants)

• File Extensions: .phc, .pec
• Used By: Advanced models of Brother & Babylock
• Software Support: PE-Design, Palette
• Special Uses: Saves more metadata (thread brand, zoom data, etc.)

PEC is often embedded inside PES files, adding more detailed metadata.

How to Convert Embroidery File Formats

If you’ve got a file in the wrong format, don’t worry — you can convert it using software or a digitizing service.

Popular Software for Converting:

• Wilcom Truesizer (Free & Paid) – Convert between most formats
• Embird – Offers format management and editing
• Hatch Embroidery – Full digitizing + file export
• SewArt – Beginner-friendly, converts to PES, JEF, and more
• Ink/Stitch – Free and open-source (with limitations)

File Conversion Example:

Want to convert a DST to PES?

1. Open the DST file in Wilcom Truesizer or SewArt
2. Edit colors or stitches if needed
3. Export as .PES
4. Load into your Brother machine — done!

Caution: Not All Conversions Are Perfect

Even if you successfully convert a file, not all machines interpret it the same way. You might lose:

• Thread color data
• Stitch types
• Fonts or lettering details
• Design alignment

To avoid issues:

• Test stitch on scrap fabric
• Review in machine preview
• Adjust in editing software (if possible)

Tip: Use a Professional Digitizing Service for Best Results

Need to convert a JPG, PNG, or SVG into a machine-ready format? Then you don’t just need file conversion — you need digitizing.

That’s where Digitizing Buddy comes in.

We offer:

• Custom digitizing in PES, DST, JEF, VP3, and more
• Fast 12–24 hour turnaround
• Edits included
• Support for caps, jackets, left chest, patches, and beyond

Get your logo or design turned into a stitch-ready embroidery file for any machine brand.

Quick File Format Reference Chart

FAQs: Embroidery File Format Compatibility

Can I use DST files on a Brother machine?

Usually, no. Brother machines typically require PES. Use software to convert DST to PES before stitching.

How do I open an embroidery file on my computer?

Use free software like Wilcom Truesizer, Ink/Stitch, or Hatch Organizer to preview and manage embroidery files.

Is PES the best format?

It depends on your machine. PES is perfect for Brother/Babylock users, but DST is the most universal.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Format, Stitch with Confidence

The embroidery world is full of creativity — but also full of technical file quirks. Knowing the right file format for your machine is crucial to avoid frustration and wasted materials.

Whether you're using a Brother, Janome, Bernina, or industrial Tajima, make sure your design is in the right format — and if it’s not, convert or digitize it properly.

Need a hand? Let Digitizing Buddy handle the file prep while you focus on the stitching.