DST vs PES and Other Embroidery File Formats Explained

Why formats matter

Embroidery machines do not all read the same files. If you send the wrong format, the machine will not open it. The format you need depends on your machine brand.

The most common formats

DST is the industry standard for commercial machines, especially Tajima. PES is used by Brother and Babylock home and small commercial machines. EXP is a Melco format. JEF is used by Janome. HUS is used by Husqvarna Viking. VP3 is used by newer Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff machines.

DST versus PES

DST stores stitch positions and color change commands but not thread colors. PES stores thread colors and works well on Brother machines. Many decorators ask for DST because nearly every commercial machine reads it.

Working files and machine files

EMB is a Wilcom working file used to edit a design. Machine formats like DST are final. Ask for the working file only if you plan to edit the design yourself.

Not sure which to choose?

Pick Not sure in the order form and tell us your machine model. We will choose the right format and send it.