PNG to EXP: digitize your image

Step by step

1. Open Auto Digitize

   In Studio, choose Auto Digitize and upload your artwork.

2. Compare the trace

   Review the PNG silhouette and details. Adjust the available controls and inspect suggestions.

3. Choose stitches and colors

   Review each important object, set its stitch type, and check the thread colors. Use Create design when the trace is ready.

4. Export EXP

   Direct EXP export from Studio requires Pro. A free alternative is to export the completed design as PES, then convert that existing stitch file to EXP in the free converter. Preview the sewing sequence, check the hoop and test the result on your intended material.

Prepare the PNG artwork

A PNG can retain crisp edges and transparency. A transparent background is not a request to stitch a white rectangle. Inspect both the outer silhouette and internal holes before creating the design.

Use a clean export with enough pixels to distinguish small shapes. Increasing pixel count cannot restore detail lost in a blurry original.

Start with the final design size in mind. A highlight that is visible on a screen can be too small to reproduce with thread at a tiny embroidery size.

Review the trace before creating

Check the silhouette, holes, outlines and small facial details against your reference. Adjust the tracing controls where available. Work through the wizard's suggestions, then inspect individual objects and choose fill, satin, running or off as appropriate. Review colors before using Create design.

Satin suits column-like details; broad regions usually need fill. Tiny disconnected shapes may need to be enlarged, simplified or redrawn. Detection is not the same as a satisfactory stitch-out.

Create, preview and export EXP

Direct EXP export from Studio requires Pro. A free alternative is to export the completed design as PES, then convert that existing stitch file to EXP in the free converter.

Some BERNINA workflows use additional color or preview companion files. This converter does not create a BERNINA USB bundle, so check your machine manual before relying on a lone EXP.

A standalone EXP does not carry RGB thread colors in this workflow. The preview uses sample colors; retain your reference image and thread sequence.

When to edit by hand

Flat logos with distinct colors are a practical starting point. Photographs, very small lettering and shaded artwork often require deliberate simplification or manual drawing. Use node editing and stitch controls to improve the result instead of repeatedly tracing an unsuitable source.

Keep your editable project as well as the machine file. A later resize is easier to evaluate when the original objects and stitch settings are available.

Common questions