Machine Embroidery Design Formats – Complete Guide
At Embroideres, we provide all major and most popular machine embroidery formats. There are no limits on how many formats you can select for download.
You can update your preferred formats anytime in your account settings and re-download your purchased embroidery designs in the newly selected format — no need to buy again.
Available Machine Embroidery Formats (Alphabetical Order)
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| .ART | Shape-based format used on Bernina Artista machines and software (availability depends on design size). |
| .DST | Stitch-based format used on Tajima and most industrial embroidery machines. |
| .EXP | Stitch-based format compatible with Tajima-based systems and embroidery software. |
| .HUS | Stitch-based format used on Viking / Husqvarna embroidery machines. |
| .JEF | Stitch-based format for Janome embroidery machines (availability depends on size). |
| .JEF+ | Extended stitch-based format for Janome machines (availability depends on size). |
| Instruction file (not an embroidery format). Viewable with Adobe Acrobat. Included with some designs. | |
| .PEC | Stitch-based format for Brother, Bernina, and Babylock machines (availability depends on size). |
| .PES | Stitch-based format for Brother, Bernina, and Babylock embroidery machines (availability depends on size). |
| .PHC | Stitch-based format compatible with Brother, Bernina, and Babylock machines. |
| .SHV | Stitch-based format for Husqvarna Viking Designer 1 machines (available on request, additional fee may apply). |
| .VIP | Stitch-based format used in Husqvarna & Pfaff compatible software. |
| .VP3 | Shape-based format for modern Husqvarna and Pfaff embroidery machines. |
| .VP4 | Shape-based format used in Husqvarna 3-D design software. |
| .XXX | Stitch-based format for Compucon and Singer embroidery machines. |
How to Choose the Correct Embroidery Format
Selecting the right file format ensures proper stitching and smooth machine performance. Always check your embroidery machine model and confirm which formats it supports.
Brand Compatibility Overview
- Brother / Babylock → PES, PEC, PHC
- Janome → JEF, JEF+
- Bernina → ART
- Husqvarna / Pfaff → VP3, VIP
- Tajima / Industrial machines → DST, EXP
Can You Convert Embroidery Formats?
Yes, embroidery formats can be converted using embroidery software such as Wilcom, Hatch, Embrilliance, and similar programs. However, conversion may sometimes affect stitch settings. For best results, download the original format supported by your machine whenever possible.
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