Which embroidery file formats are supported?

We support 60+ formats including DST (Tajima), PES (Brother), JEF (Janome), VP3 (Pfaff), EXP (Melco), HUS (Husqvarna), XXX (Singer), CSV, SVG, PNG and many more. Read and write support varies by format.

Is the converter really free?

Yes — completely free. No account, no watermark, no file-size payment wall. Just upload, select your target format, and download.

How long does conversion take?

Most conversions complete in just a few seconds. Complex files or high server demand may occasionally add a short wait — the progress bar will keep you updated in real time.

Are my files kept private?

Your file is sent directly to the conversion API, processed, and the converted result is returned. No files are stored or shared with third parties.

What if I need professional embroidery digitizing?

Our free converter handles format-to-format conversion. If you need a design digitized from an image or logo, check out our professional digitizing service.

Which PES version should I use?

PES v6 has the broadest compatibility. Older machines (pre-2010) may need PES v4 or v5. Newer Brother machines (PE800, Innov-is) support PES v10 and v12 with additional features like design notes. Check your machine manual for the recommended version.

Can I open PES files without Brother software?

Yes — many third-party embroidery programs including Embrilliance Essentials, Hatch, Wilcom, and SewArt can open PES files. Our free converter can also convert PES to any other format.

Why does my PES file look different on the machine?

Color rendering may differ because your machine's built-in color display may not match the thread palette exactly. Also ensure you're using the correct PES version for your specific machine model.

What is the difference between PES and PHB?

PHB is an older Brother format (Brother Home Horizontal). PES is the current standard for Brother and Babylock home machines. Most modern Brother machines prefer PES files.

How do I convert PES to DST for a commercial machine?

Use our free converter at the top of this page — upload your PES file, select DST as the output format, and download in seconds.

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.PES Format Guide

.PES Embroidery File Format

PES is Brother's proprietary embroidery file format, used by the entire Brother and Babylock range of home and semi-commercial machines. PES files store full thread color data including thread manufacturer codes, making it one of the most user-friendly formats for home embroiderers.

Used by: Brother

Compatible machines: Brother PE800, Brother SE700, Brother Innov-is NV2700, Brother NS2750D, Babylock Flourish, Babylock Solaris, Bernina (via adapter)

Quick Facts

Extension	.pes
Full Name	Brother PES
Brand	Brother
Max Colors	99
Read	✓ Supported
Write	✓ Supported
Stitch Types	Running stitch, Satin stitch, Fill / tatami stitch, Appliqué placement marks

ReadableWritable

How to Open .PES Files

1Connect your Brother machine to your computer or insert the USB drive.
2Open your embroidery software (Brother PE-Design, Embrilliance, Hatch, etc.).
3Go to File → Open and select 'Brother PES (.pes)' as the file type.
4Browse to your .pes file and click Open.
5Thread colors will load automatically from the embedded palette.
6Transfer the file to your machine via USB or direct connection.

How to Save / Export .PES Files

1Open your design in embroidery software.
2Go to File → Save As or File → Export.
3Select 'Brother PES (.pes)' as the output format.
4Choose your preferred PES version (PES v6 is widely compatible; newer Brother machines prefer PES v10+).
5Click Save and transfer the .pes file to your machine's USB slot or memory card.

Color Information

PES stores complete thread color data referenced against Brother's thread catalog. When you open a PES file the colors load automatically. You can also see Isacord, Madeira, and other thread equivalents in compatible software.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which PES version should I use?: PES v6 has the broadest compatibility. Older machines (pre-2010) may need PES v4 or v5. Newer Brother machines (PE800, Innov-is) support PES v10 and v12 with additional features like design notes. Check your machine manual for the recommended version.
Can I open PES files without Brother software?: Yes — many third-party embroidery programs including Embrilliance Essentials, Hatch, Wilcom, and SewArt can open PES files. Our free converter can also convert PES to any other format.
Why does my PES file look different on the machine?: Color rendering may differ because your machine's built-in color display may not match the thread palette exactly. Also ensure you're using the correct PES version for your specific machine model.
What is the difference between PES and PHB?: PHB is an older Brother format (Brother Home Horizontal). PES is the current standard for Brother and Babylock home machines. Most modern Brother machines prefer PES files.
How do I convert PES to DST for a commercial machine?: Use our free converter at the top of this page — upload your PES file, select DST as the output format, and download in seconds.

Convert .PES Now — Free

Step 1 — Upload Your Embroidery File

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DST · PES · JEF · VP3 · EXP · and 60+ formats

Step 2 — Choose Output Format

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Step 3 — Convert

✓ No account needed · ✓ Files processed securely · ✓ 60+ formats supported

Related Formats

.DST .JEF .PHB .VP3

Common .PES Conversions

.PES → .DST .PES → .JEF .PES → .VP3 .PES → .EXP .PES → .HUS .PES → .XXX .PES → .SEW .PES → .VIP

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