How to Change Embroidery Machine File Formats

So, you’ve found a great free embroidery design, but – oh no. It’s the wrong format! Well, worry not crafter, it’s actually super easy to change that design to the correct format. Here’s how to do it using free software.

Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Embroidery File Formats

1.) Download Free Embroidery Editing Software

Embroidery machines require specialized software not only to be digitized, but also to change formats! That’s why you won’t find a ‘PES file converter‘ – no matter how hard you look or what the website promises you!

The good news is that unlike digitizing software, there are plenty freebie software options out there that can help you convert your embroidery files to new formats.

For this tutorial, we’ll be using Wilcom Truesizer.

2.) Open Your Existing Machine Embroidery File

Launch Truesizer (or your software of choice) and go to File > Open. Browse for the design file you wish to convert. Once selected, the design preview will appear, providing you with basic details and options for minor edits.

Here’s a cute little Trick or Treat one I digitized as an example!

3.) Select ‘Export Machine File’ From the Menu

Navigate back to the menu and select File > Export Machine File. If you’re having trouble locating it, use the quick access icon on the toolbar; it features the same flower logo as the menu.

4.) Choose the File Format You Need

When you click ‘Export Machine File,’ a pop-up will appear, allowing you to select the format compatible with your machine. Once chosen, click save to store the new format in your preferred location.

And that’s it! You can now convert almost any embroidery design file into a format that your machine can read. Get creative and don’t forget to explore our free design library for your next project.

Why is there not an online PES file converter?

The process of creating embroidery files is a little complicated! This requires specialized software and online tools just aren’t up to the task. But, you can still download some free embroidery software to get the job done on your computer!

Can’t I just convert a JPG to a PES embroidery file??

Nope, sorry! Embroidery files are a little more complicated than that. Digitizing is a difficult and skilled process that requires special (often expensive) software. No programs out there will automatically convert a plain old JPEG to a PES embroidery machine file/

Can I edit designs after converting them?

Sometimes you can make minor edits in free software programs, but be aware that altering machine files has its limitations. For example, you won’t be able to make a design much larger or smaller unless you have the native file (such as an EMB).

What kind of software do I need to convert images to PES files?

There are many options out there, but if you want a free software you can give Ink Stitch a try. Be warned there is a fair learning curve to this software, but there’s also lots of tutorials on YouTube as well.

What is native embroidery file?

Native embroidery files are the “master file” that comes from creating a design in a digitizing program. Using this file gives you a lot more options to edit it later, but many providers don’t give you these files.

If you get a design digitizes (or you do it yourself) make sure to keep this file in case you want to re-size or edit your design later! These are non-machine file formats used exclusively by your digitizing software.

Native file formats include: EMB (Wilcom), JAN (Janome), and ART (Bernina).