Embroidery Design and Machine Formats

  • OFM: Melco DesignShop design format that can retain editable object and embroidery information when built as a native design.
  • EMB: Wilcom editable embroidery design format that can retain object based design information when created as an EMB design.
  • DST: Widely used machine stitch format for commercial embroidery production.
  • PES: Common embroidery format used in Brother and compatible home or small shop workflows.
  • EXP: Machine stitch format used in several commercial embroidery workflows.
  • Other formats: Additional embroidery formats are available by request when supported by the production workflow.

Vector Artwork Formats

  • AI: Adobe Illustrator vector artwork format.
  • SVG: Scalable vector format commonly used for web, cutting, and graphics workflows.
  • EPS: Established vector exchange format used in many print and graphics workflows.
  • PDF: Can contain vector artwork and is widely used for sharing print ready graphics.
  • Other formats: Additional vector formats can be discussed based on your software and production needs.

Editable Design File vs Machine Stitch File

Editable design formats such as OFM and EMB can contain higher level design information when the design is created natively in the appropriate software workflow. Machine formats such as DST primarily describe the stitch instructions needed for production.

Converting an expanded stitch file into another extension does not automatically recreate the original editable objects that existed before export.

What Files Will I Receive?

Your order is delivered in the format or formats selected for the project. Native editable formats such as OFM or EMB can be requested when applicable, and machine formats such as DST, PES, or EXP can also be supplied based on your production needs.

If you are unsure what your machine or software needs, include the machine brand, software, and desired workflow with the order or contact us before submitting.

Compare File Formats in the Education Hub

Not sure which file you need? Tell us your machine and software and we can help identify the appropriate production format.

Start an Order Ask a Format Question All Services