# Embroidery file formats and software explained

Source: https://stitchandhem.co.uk/blog/embroidery-file-formats-explained
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Stitch and Hem

**In short:** Embroidery machines read stitch files in specific formats. PES is Brother's format and is also read by some other brands, JEF is Janome's, EXP is used by Bernina and Melco, DST is the Tajima commercial format and VP3 or VIP are used by Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff and Singer via mySewnet. Check your machine's manual for the formats it reads, and buy or convert designs to match.

Downloading an embroidery design usually means choosing from a list of file extensions, which can be confusing if you are new to machine embroidery. The format matters because each machine only reads certain types. This explainer covers the main formats and which brands use them, the difference between stitch files and working files, how designs get onto the machine, and what to know about converting files and embroidery software.

## Stitch files and why formats differ

An embroidery design file is a set of instructions: where each stitch goes, in what order and when to change colour or trim. These are called stitch files or machine files. Each maker developed its own format over the years, so a design saved for one brand may not open on another.

Stitch files are different from the working files that digitising software uses. A working file keeps the design as editable shapes, so it can be resized and changed cleanly. A stitch file records only the stitches, which is why big resizing can cause problems. When you buy designs, you normally download the stitch file in the format your machine reads.

## The main embroidery formats

The table lists the formats home embroiderers meet most often. Compatibility changes between models and generations, so treat this as a general guide: each machine's manual lists the formats it reads.

| Format | Associated brands | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| PES | Brother; also read by others such as Bernette and Baby Lock | Very widely offered by design sellers |
| JEF | Janome | Some Janome models also read other formats |
| EXP | Bernina, Melco | Often supplied alongside Bernina's own working formats |
| DST | Tajima, commercial machines | Widely supported but stores little colour information |
| VP3 / VIP | Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff, Singer via mySewnet | VP3 is the newer of the two |

Common embroidery file formats

## Which format does my machine read?

The quickest way to find out is the specification page or manual for your model, which lists supported formats. Brother embroidery machines use PES, which is one reason PES files are so widely available. Janome machines use JEF, and some read other formats too. Bernina models read EXP alongside their own formats, and Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff machines use VP3, with Singer embroidery machines also using it through the mySewnet platform.

DST is worth knowing about because many commercial and multi needle machines read it and many design sellers include it. Some home machines read it, but because DST stores little colour information, you may need to choose thread colours yourself from the design's colour chart.

If a design seller offers several formats, choose the one your manual lists first, rather than one your machine can technically open. This gives the most reliable colour stops and trims.

## Getting designs onto the machine

Most current home embroidery machines accept designs from a USB stick, and many add wireless transfer through the maker's app or software. Older machines may use a direct cable to a computer or a memory card. The method for your model is in its manual.

Keep file names short and simple, and avoid deep folder structures on USB sticks, because some machines only read a limited number of folders or characters. If a design will not appear, check the format first, then the file's size against the machine's embroidery field, as a design larger than the field may be hidden or rejected. Our [hoop sizes explainer](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/blog/embroidery-hoop-sizes-explained) covers field sizes.

1. Download the design in the format your manual lists and unzip it on your computer.
2. Copy the stitch file to a USB stick, ideally into the top level folder.
3. Insert the stick into the machine and open the design from the memory or USB menu.
4. Check the size, colour stops and position on screen before stitching.

## Converting files and embroidery software

Embroidery software ranges from simple tools that view and convert formats to full digitising programs that create designs from scratch. Most major makers offer their own software, and there are independent programs that work with several brands. Converting a design from one stitch format to another is usually straightforward because the stitches stay the same, but colour information or trims can change, so check the result on screen and stitch a test.

Digitising, turning artwork into a stitch file, is a separate skill. Automatic digitising tools can convert simple images, but good results usually need manual adjustment of stitch types, density and underlay. Most beginners start with built in designs and purchased files and only move on to digitising later. Only use designs you are licensed to use, especially for items you plan to sell.

When you are choosing a machine, the format it reads is rarely a deal breaker because conversion is possible, but native support for a common format such as PES makes buying designs simpler. Our [best embroidery machines for beginners](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-embroidery-machines-for-beginners) guide covers how each machine connects and what is included.

[Compare embroidery machines](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-embroidery-machines-for-beginners)

## Frequently asked questions

**What is a PES file?** PES is Brother's embroidery stitch file format. It stores stitches, colour changes and basic design information, and is also read by some other brands such as Bernette and Baby Lock. Check your machine's manual to confirm.

**Can I use PES files on a Janome?** Janome machines use JEF as their main format. Some models may read other formats, but if yours does not, you can convert a PES file to JEF with embroidery software and check it on screen before stitching.

**Do I need embroidery software?** Not to get started. Machines come with built in designs and can load ready made files. Software becomes useful for converting formats, combining designs, adding lettering and eventually digitising your own artwork.

**Why does my machine not show my embroidery design?** The most common reasons are an unsupported format, a design larger than the machine's field, or the file being inside a zip folder or a deep subfolder. Unzip it, copy it to the top level of the USB stick and check the format.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-embroidery-machines-for-beginners
- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-sewing-and-embroidery-machines
- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/brother-sewing-machines-compared
- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/janome-sewing-machines-compared