If you’re getting into machine embroidery, one of the first things you’ll come across is the world of embroidery file format. Confused about PES, DST, JEF, or EXP? You’re not alone.
Before you digitize your designs, it’s essential to understand the different embroidery file types—and which one your machine actually uses. Choosing the wrong format can result in broken stitches, error messages, or even damage to your embroidery machine.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What embroidery file formats are
- The most common file types and what machines they’re for
- The difference between machine formats and working files
- Tips for choosing the right format before digitizing
Want a professionally digitized file already formatted for your machine? Digitizing Buddy offers fast, accurate digitizing services and provides the exact file format you need—PES, DST, JEF, EXP, and more.
Let’s dive in!
What Are Embroidery File Formats?
An embroidery file format is a special type of digital file that tells your embroidery machine how to stitch your design. These formats contain:
- Stitch paths (where to place stitches)
- Thread colors and order
- Needle movements
- Stops, jumps, and trims
But not all machines speak the same language. That’s why there are different file formats for different embroidery brands.
Think of it like this:
- PES is for Brother, just like MP4 is for your phone’s video player.
- Your machine can only “play” the file format it’s compatible with.
Machine-Specific Embroidery File Formats
Here’s a table of the most common machine-readable embroidery file formats and the brands that use them:
| File Format | Used By | Details |
| PES | Brother, Babylock | One of the most popular formats for home embroidery |
| DST | Tajima, commercial machines | Lightweight, widely accepted by industrial machines |
| JEF | Janome | For most Janome embroidery machines |
| EXP | Bernina, Melco | Common for Bernina’s newer models |
| VP3 | Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff | High-resolution stitches and color info |
| XXX | Singer embroidery machines | Older but still used by some models |
| EMB | Wilcom software only (not for machines) | Used for editing and saving working files |
| ART | Bernina’s proprietary format | Requires Bernina software to read/edit |
Pro Tip: Always check your machine’s manual or screen display to find out which formats are supported.
Machine Format vs. Working File: What’s the Difference?
Machine File Format
This is the final stitch-ready file that you load into your embroidery machine—like PES, DST, or JEF. It contains only stitch instructions, not design elements you can edit.
Working File Format
These are editable files used by digitizing software (like EMB, BE, or INB). They include layers, stitch types, object shapes, and can be modified anytime.
Example: You might create a design in Wilcom and save it as EMB, then export it to DST or PES for your machine.
Why it matters: Always save your working file so you can tweak the design later without starting over!
Most Popular Embroidery File Formats Explained
Let’s take a closer look at the most common formats, their pros, and how to use them.
1. PES – Brother/Babylock Format
- Used By: Brother, Babylock, Deco
- Supports color info, multiple thread changes
- Compatible with home embroidery software like PE-Design, Embrilliance
- Not universally accepted by commercial machines
Perfect for hobbyists and small businesses using Brother or Babylock machines.
2. DST – Tajima Format
- Used By: Tajima and most commercial machines
- Lightweight, fast to process
- Widely accepted in the industry
- Doesn’t store color information (machine picks default colors)
Great for high-speed, multi-head machines or if you use a commercial embroidery shop.
3. JEF – Janome Format
- Used By: Janome embroidery machines
- Stores stitch data and color info
- Limited in compatibility—use only for Janome machines
If you’re a Janome user, this is your go-to format.
4. EXP – Bernina Format
- Used By: Bernina, Melco
- Fast processing
- May require .INF or .BMP files for thread colors
Some Bernina software exports ART (editable), but the machine reads EXP.
5. VP3 – Viking & Pfaff Format
- Used By: Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff
- Supports high stitch counts and color layers
- Not accepted by most other machines
Ideal for embroidery enthusiasts using these specific brands.
Which Format Should You Choose Before Digitizing?
Here’s a quick way to decide:
| Your Machine Brand | File Format to Use |
| Brother / Babylock | PES |
| Janome | JEF |
| Bernina | EXP (machine), ART (editable) |
| Tajima / Ricoma | DST |
| Husqvarna / Pfaff | VP3 |
| Singer | XXX |
If you’re ordering from a digitizing service like Digitizing Buddy, always specify your machine brand—they’ll provide the correct format for you.
Can I Convert Between Formats?
Yes! You can convert embroidery files using:
- Embrilliance Essentials
- Wilcom Truesizer (free online tool)
- SewWhat-Pro
- Hatch Embroidery Software
But remember:
- Converting doesn’t always preserve stitch integrity
- Some formats (like DST) lose color information
- It’s better to export directly from the working file, not convert stitch files
Common Conversion Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Problem | Solution |
| Converting low-res JPG to PES | Image is not stitch-ready | Must be digitized, not converted |
| Editing a machine file (PES/DST) | You can’t adjust stitch type or density | Keep and edit the working file |
| Using wrong format for machine | File won’t open or stitch correctly | Check machine manual and format |
| Converting across multiple formats | May lose quality and alignment | Use original digitized file |
FAQs About Embroidery File Formats
Can I open PES or DST files in design software?
Yes, but they are not editable. You can view them, resize slightly, and assign colors—but you can’t change the stitch path unless you have the working file.
What if I don’t know my machine’s format?
Check your embroidery machine’s manual or manufacturer website. Or just ask your digitizer—they’ll help you choose.
Can I use one file format on all machines?
Not really. Most embroidery machines only accept one or two specific formats.
What’s the best format to request from a digitizing service?
Ask for the format your machine reads, and also request a PDF stitch preview to visualize the design.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Format, Stitch with Confidence
Embroidery file formats can feel a little technical, but once you know your machine’s needs, it all starts to make sense. Whether you’re digitizing your own logo or getting a design professionally done, choosing the right file format ensures:
- Smoother stitches
- Fewer machine errors
- A cleaner, more professional finish
Want to skip the format confusion and get it done right?
Trust Digitizing Buddy to convert your artwork into machine-ready embroidery files—in the exact format you need, with clean stitches, and fast turnaround.
Now you’re ready to stitch smarter, not harder!