Converting vs digitizing embroidery files

An existing machine file needs conversion

A PES, DST, JEF or similar file already has stitch information. If its size and stitch design are suitable but your machine needs another format, conversion is the right task. Upload the original file and choose a supported destination.

The output can differ in coordinate precision, color storage and how long movements are represented. Converting does not restore editable objects, improve digitizing decisions or fix every machine-compatibility issue.

An image needs digitizing

PNG, JPEG and SVG artwork describes an appearance or geometry, not a complete sewing plan. A digitizer must decide which areas get fill, which get satin, and how the sequence travels through the design.

If an image is rejected by the file converter, open Auto Digitize in Studio. Renaming the image to a machine extension is not a workaround.

A different size needs a separate decision

Scaling stitch coordinates changes the distance between stitches and rows. It can therefore change coverage and how details sew. An object-based source project gives the engine more information than a flattened machine file.

Stitchist's resizer is a Beta tool for existing files. Review its preview and warnings. For important work or a large size change, prefer the editable source project when you have it, and test the new size.

A practical example

If you have a logo.png and a Brother machine, first digitize the logo and export PES. If a friend then needs the same finished design as JEF at the same size, convert the PES to JEF. If they need it twice as wide, address resizing and stitch coverage before treating the new file as ready to sew.

Common questions