Embroidery is more than just a craft—it’s a blend of creativity and precision. But no matter how stunning a design looks on a screen, it won’t stitch correctly unless it’s in the right embroidery file format. Unlike regular image files like JPG or PNG, embroidery machines require specialized formats that store stitch data, thread colors, and machine instructions. That’s why understanding embroidery file formats is crucial for achieving flawless stitching results.

One of the most commonly used formats in embroidery is PES, a file type specifically designed for Brother and Baby Lock embroidery machines. It ensures the machine correctly interprets the design, guiding the needle through each stitch with precision. Whether you’re working on personal embroidery projects or running a custom embroidery business, knowing how to convert designs into PES format is essential.

However, many users struggle with PES conversion. Some assume that uploading a standard image file will work, only to realize their machine can’t read it. Others download embroidery designs in different formats like DST or EXP and don’t know how to convert them. Additionally, beginners often find embroidery software complex and intimidating.

In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to converting designs into PES format. We’ll explore the best software options for conversion, share expert tips to ensure high-quality stitching, and help you troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll be fully equipped to create perfectly digitized PES files for flawless embroidery.

Understanding PES Format

Before proceeding further, lets first understand what PES is, why it’s important, and how it’s used in embroidery.

1. What is PES?

  • The PES file format is proprietary to Brother and Baby Lock embroidery machines, meaning these machines are specifically designed to read and execute PES files.
  • Unlike regular image formats (JPG, PNG, or BMP), PES files contain machine-readable stitch data that tells the embroidery machine exactly how to sew the design onto fabric.
  • It’s one of the most widely used embroidery formats because Brother embroidery machines are extremely popular among both hobbyists and professionals.

2. Why PES? 

PES files don’t just store a visual image of a design—they contain detailed embroidery instructions that the machine follows precisely.

These instructions include:
Stitch pathing (how the needle moves to create the design).
Thread colors (which threads to use and in what sequence).
Density settings (how close stitches should be for optimal coverage).
Machine settings (hoop size, stitch count, and underlay details).

This makes PES essential for high-quality embroidery because it ensures designs are stitched correctly, without errors or distortions.

3. Common Uses: Custom Embroidery Designs, Digitized Artwork, and Detailed Stitching

PES files are commonly used in both home and commercial embroidery.

Businesses and individuals use PES files to create:
1.Custom logos, for apparel and uniforms.
2.Personalized embroidery, on gifts, towels, and hats.
3.Digitized artwork, for intricate embroidery patterns.
4.Decorative stitching, for fashion and accessories.

Since PES files store highly detailed stitch data, they are perfect for complex and multi-color embroidery designs.

The Essential Requirements for Converting Designs to PES

This is crucial to understand the right software and file format compatibility, you might face issues in generating high-quality PES files that work smoothly on different embroidery machines.

1. Compatible Software: Wilcom, Hatch, Chroma, Ink/Stitch, SewArt, Embird

Converting an image or embroidery design into PES format requires digitizing software. The best software options include:
1.Wilcom Embroidery Studio – A professional-grade embroidery software with advanced manual digitizing features.
2.Hatch Embroidery Software – Beginner-friendly, offering auto-digitizing and manual editing tools.
3.Chroma by Ricoma – Simple yet powerful, designed for beginners and professionals.
4.Ink/Stitch (Open Source) – A free embbroidery software option within Inkscape for basic digitizing and PES export.
5.SewArt – An affordable, beginner-friendly software for basic image-to-stitch conversions.
6.Embird – Offers robust editing and conversion tools for embroidery files.

Choosing the right software depends on the user’s skill level, budget, and the level of detail required in the PES file.

2. Input Formats Supported: JPG, PNG, BMP, SVG, AI, DST, EXP, etc.

  • Not all embroidery designs start as PES files. Many times, designs are available in image formats (JPG, PNG, BMP, SVG, AI) or other embroidery file types like DST, EXP, VP3, etc.
  • Good digitizing software allows conversion from multiple file formats into PES, either through auto-digitizing (converting an image into stitches) or manual digitizing (redrawing the design stitch by stitch).
  • The quality of the original file (sharpness, resolution, and clarity) affects the final PES output.

3. Machine Compatibility: Ensuring PES File Settings Match Machine Capabilities (Hoop Size, Stitch Count)

Even after successfully converting a design to PES, it must match the machine’s capabilities to avoid errors.

Key factors to consider:
1.Hoop Size – The design must fit within the embroidery hoop dimensions supported by the machine.
2.Stitch Count Limitations – Some machines have maximum stitch count limits per design.
3.Thread Colors & Stops – The PES file should include color stops that align with the thread changes required.
4.Machine Model Compatibility – Older Brother models may require an older PES version.

Ignoring these factors can lead to errors, such as designs being cut off, misaligned, or unreadable by the machine.

How to Convert Designs to PES Format for Perfect Stitching

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Convert Designs to PES

A. Preparing Your Design for Conversion

Before converting a design to PES format, proper preparation ensures better embroidery quality.

1. High-Quality Image: Avoid Pixelation, Ensure Clarity

  • If using an image file (JPG, PNG, BMP), ensure it is high resolution (300 DPI or higher).
  • Avoid blurry, pixelated images—clean lines improve stitch accuracy.

2. Simplify Complex Artwork: Reduce Colors and Unnecessary Details

  • Embroidery machines work best with simplified designs.
  • Reduce unnecessary colors and details to avoid excessive stitch complexity.

3. Set Proper Dimensions: Ensure the Design Fits the Embroidery Hoop Size

  • Resize the design according to the machine’s hoop size.
  • Designs too large may get cut off, while designs too small may lose detail.

B. Using Different Software to Convert to PES

Now that your design is ready, let’s look at different software options for converting files into PES format.

1. Wilcom Embroidery Studio (Best for Professional Digitizing)

1.Import the image file (JPG, PNG, AI, etc.).
2.Use auto-digitizing for quick conversion or manual digitizing for better accuracy.
3.Adjust stitch density and underlay settings for quality stitching.
4.Export the final PES file.

2. Hatch Embroidery Software (Great for Beginners and Professionals)

1.Import the artwork and use auto-digitizing tools.
2.Fine-tune stitch density and underlay settings for durability.
3.Save and export as PES format.

3. Chroma by Ricoma (Beginner-Friendly Digitizing)

1.Open the design and select “Convert to Stitches.”
2.Adjust thread colors and stitch direction.
3.Export as PES file for embroidery machines.

4. SewArt (Budget-Friendly Option)

1. Load the image file and convert to embroidery stitches.
 2.Apply color reduction and smoothing for better results.
3.Save the design in PES format.

5. Ink/Stitch (Free Open-Source Option)

1.Import an SVG file into Ink/Stitch (an Inkscape plugin).
2.Apply embroidery path settings to define stitch direction.
3.Save the final PES file.

Each of these software options caters to different skill levels and budgets.

Ensuring a High-Quality PES Conversion

Even after converting your design to PES, quality control is essential for perfect stitching.

1. Check Stitch Density: Avoid Overly Dense or Sparse Areas

  • Too dense: Causes thread breaks and uneven stitching.
  • Too sparse: Leaves gaps in the embroidery.
  • Adjust stitch density in software for smooth results.

2. Select Appropriate Underlay: Stabilizes Fabric and Improves Embroidery Quality

  • Underlay stitches prevent fabric shifting and distortion.
  • Choose zigzag, edge run, or tatami underlay for best stability.

3. Use Proper Thread Colors: Match Colors with Embroidery Thread Brands

  • Ensure the software thread colors match the actual thread brand used.
  • This prevents color mismatches when stitching.

4. Preview Stitch Pathing: Simulate Design Before Stitching

  • Many embroidery software programs allow stitch simulation.
  • This identifies potential errors before running the design on the machine.

Testing and Refining Your PES Design

Before stitching your final project, testing ensures a flawless embroidery result.

1. Test on Scrap Fabric: Run a Sample Stitch-Out to Check Accuracy

  • Stitch on scrap fabric first to check alignment and density.
  • This helps avoid mistakes on expensive materials.

2. Identify Errors: Missing Stitches, Jumps, or Misalignment

  • Look for loose stitches, excessive jumps, or incorrect color stops.
  • Adjust design settings to fix these issues.

3. Make Adjustments: Modify Stitch Direction, Density, and Pull Compensation

  • Pull compensation settings help adjust fabric shrinkage.
  • Modify stitch direction for a cleaner, more professional look.

By following these testing and refining steps, you’ll achieve a perfectly digitized PES file that produces high-quality embroidery results.

Where to Get PES Conversion Services

Not everyone has the skills, software, or time to convert designs into PES format manually. If you’re unsure whether to do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional digitizing service, this guide will help you decide. We’ll also introduce Absolute Digitizing, a trusted service for converting artwork to PES with precision and affordability.

DIY vs. Professional Digitizing: When to Hire an Expert

Many embroidery enthusiasts try to convert designs into PES on their own using software like Wilcom, Hatch, or Chroma. While this can work for basic designs, it often leads to stitching errors due to incorrect settings.

When is DIY a good option?

1. You have experience using embroidery digitizing software.
2. Your design is simple and doesn’t require advanced stitch techniques.
3. You are willing to invest time in learning digitizing skills.

When should you hire a professional?

1. Your design is complex or highly detailed, requiring expert adjustments.
2. You don’t have access to premium software like Wilcom or Hatch.
3. You need a perfectly optimized design that stitches without errors.

If you want a high-quality PES file without spending hours troubleshooting, professional digitizing is the best choice.

Absolute Digitizing Services: Convert Artwork to PES with Precision and Affordability

For those looking for professional PES conversion, Absolute Digitizing provides:

Affordable pricing starting at just $10 per design.
Fast turnaround times (4-12 hours, with rush service available in as little as 2 hours).
Free revisions until you are 100% satisfied.
A money-back guarantee if the design doesn’t meet expectations.

Absolute Digitizing ensures that every PES file is machine-ready, making embroidery faster, smoother, and error-free.

Why Choose a Professional PES Conversion Service?

1. Smoother stitching with no thread breaks.
2.Optimized file settings for your embroidery machine.
3.Better durability, ensuring the design doesn’t unravel over time.

With professionally digitized PES files, you can be confident that your embroidery will stitch perfectly every time!

conclusion

Converting designs to PES format requires the right software, proper design preparation, and testing for flawless embroidery. Choose the right software, prepare your design, convert it, and test before final stitching. Experiment with digitizing software, adjust settings, and test on scrap fabric. If you want perfect PES files without hassle, Absolute Digitizing offers expert digitizing, quick turnaround, and affordable rates. Get a professional PES file today!