How to Use Embroidery Files (PES, EXP, DST…) – A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re new to machine embroidery, you might be wondering what to do with all those file types like .PES, .XXX, .DST, .EXP… Don’t worry – this guide is for you! At JoStitch, we provide high-quality embroidery files in several formats so you can easily use them with your own machine. Here’s how to get started:
✅ What Are Embroidery File Formats?
Embroidery files contain the actual stitching instructions for your embroidery machine. Each machine brand uses different formats:
- PES – Common for Brother & Babylock machines
- DST – Used for industrial machines like Tajima
- EXP – For Bernina embroidery machines
- VP3 / XXX / HUS – Other formats for Viking, Pfaff, and more
Always check your machine’s manual to confirm what file types it supports.
💡 How to Use Embroidery Files Step by Step
- Download the design
After purchasing or downloading a free embroidery file from JoStitch, you’ll get a zipped folder with multiple formats. - Unzip the folder
Right-click and choose “Extract All” to access the files. - Transfer to USB or Memory Card
Copy the correct file format (e.g., PES or DST) to a USB or memory card. - Load into your embroidery machine
Insert the USB into your machine, select the design, and you’re ready to stitch!
Do a test run
It’s always a good idea to try the design on a scrap fabric first.
🧷 Bonus Tips:
• Use embroidery software to preview or resize your files (optional)
• Don’t rename the file extensions (.PES, .DST, etc.)
• Always match the hoop size to your design
🎁 Where to Get Embroidery Files?
Browse our growing collection of unique embroidery patterns at www.jostitch.com – we offer cartoon styles, kids’ patterns, Other designs, and much more – all machine-ready and beginner-friendly