JPEG is the most common image format in the world. In the embroidery context, converting a JPG to a stitch file (like PES or DST) is known as 'digitizing'. This process interprets the pixels of the image to create stitch paths.

PNG is a raster graphics file format that supports lossless data compression. It is preferred over JPG for embroidery digitizing because it supports transparency and cleaner edges, making auto-digitizing results significantly better.

BMP is an uncompressed raster image format. Many older embroidery software suites and industrial machines (for logo display) specifically require BMP files due to their simple, raw structure.

SVG is the industry standard for vector graphics. While not a direct stitch file, it is the most popular source format for 'auto-digitizing'. Converting SVG to embroidery formats allows users to turn logos and illustrations into stitchable patterns without manual digitization.

DXF is a CAD data file format developed by Autodesk. It is heavily used for quilting machines (long-arm) and laser cutters. Converting DXF to embroidery formats allows for precise geometric stitching patterns.

AI is the proprietary format of Adobe Illustrator. Professional designers use this for creating logos and vector art. Converting AI files directly to embroidery formats bridges the gap between graphic design and textile production.

EPS is a legacy vector format that is still widely used in the print and sign industry. Many stock vector websites provide designs in EPS, making it a common starting point for embroidery digitizing.

PDFs often contain vector data. Converting PDF to embroidery formats is a frequent request from clients sending logos for uniform embroidery who do not have the original AI or EPS files.

CDR is the native format for CorelDRAW. In the embroidery industry, CorelDRAW is often preferred over Illustrator because of its integration with Wilcom software. Converting CDR to stitch files is a standard workflow.

PLT files are vector plotter files. They are used in the apparel industry for pattern making and by older quilting machines. They contain pure path data which converts easily to running stitches.

The Tajima DST format is arguably the most widely used industrial embroidery standard. It relies on ternary coordinate instructions, making it incredibly durable across different machine brands but harder to resize.

EXP is the native format for Melco commercial machines and is also used by Bernina. It is conceptually similar to DST but often paired with an .inf file for color data.

CND is a 'condensed' format for Melco machines. Unlike EXP (which is expanded stitches), CND contains the outline and density data, allowing the design to be recalculated and resized perfectly.

Z00 is the native transport code for ZSK embroidery machines (German). It is highly specialized for ZSK's transport mechanism and head logic.

T01 is a tape-image format often used by Wilcom software and older Barudan machines. It represents the data as it would appear on a paper punch tape.

U01 is a specific format for Barudan machines ensuring correct needle addressing and jump stitch codes that generic DST files sometimes mishandle on Barudan hardware.

DAT is another variation of Barudan's machine language, often found on their newer high-speed commercial heads.

DSB is used for Tajima's chenille or looping machines. It stores stitch commands similarly to DST but handles specialized hardware commands.

The TAP format is the proprietary format for Happy (HappyJapan) industrial embroidery machines.

INB is the format for Inbro industrial machines. These are less common today but still operate in many textile factories.

The 10O format is specific to Toyota expert embroidery machines.

Brother's PES format is the dominant file type for the home market. It stores stitch data, hoop info, colors, and preview images.

PEC is a simpler 'card' format from Brother. Often embedded inside PES files but can exist standalone.

PHC is a format specific to Brother's internal machine memory ("My Creations").

JEF is the native file type for Janome machines. It is tied closely to the physical hoop constraints.

JEF+ is an enhanced version of JEF for newer Janome machines, allowing for editable object data.

SEW is the original legacy format for Janome (Memory Craft). Limited colors and hoop size.

VP3 is the modern standard for Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff. Offers superior compression and color data.

VIP is a bridge format between legacy formats and VP3. Common on mid-2000s machines.

SHV is specific to the Viking Designer 1 floppy disk system.

HUS is the legacy format for Husqvarna machines. Still widely used in archives.

PCD is a legacy format for Pfaff machines, typically for the smaller hoop Creative series.

PCM is another legacy Pfaff format, often used on the Pfaff PC-Designer software.

PCS is the most common legacy format for Pfaff machines before VP3.

XXX is used by Singer machines (Compucon). It serves the mass market of home embroidery.

CSD (Compact Stitch Data) is a legacy format for Singer and Poem machines.

EMD is a proprietary format utilized by Elna machines.

ART is Bernina's proprietary, high-level design format. It allows for advanced resizing.

EMB is the 'Holy Grail' of embroidery files. It is the native object-based file for Wilcom software. It contains the vectors, stitch parameters, and colors. Converting FROM EMB provides the best results, but converting TO EMB essentially just creates a stitch file inside a wrapper.

STX is a format used by DataStitch software and controllers.

HQF is the native format for HandiQuilter long-arm quilting machines.

IQP is used by the IntelliQuilter system, a computerized addition to long-arm machines.

QCC is a format generated by QuiltCad software for automated quilting.

Exports the raw stitch coordinates (X, Y) and commands (Jump, Stop) to a Comma Separated Values file. Useful for debugging or custom plotting.

Exports a simple list of coordinate pairs, useful for CAD plotting or verifying stitch integrity.