Convert a JPG to a DST embroidery file
DST is the stitch format most commercial embroidery machines read. Here is how to get from a JPG to a DST you can load.
Why it is not a one-click converter
A PNG or JPG is a grid of coloured pixels. An embroidery file is a list of needle positions, thread changes and trims. Nothing in an image says where the stitches should go, in which direction, or in which order, so converting means digitizing: deciding how each area is stitched.
Stitchloft gives you three ways to do that, from fully automatic to fully manual, and every result is editable. Expect to review and adjust the result, especially small text, thin lines and photos.
JPG to DST in four steps
- Create a design and import your JPG. JPGs are compressed, so use the largest, cleanest copy you have.
- Choose Trace it myself, Auto-digitize (Maker and above) or AI design.
- Edit the result, set thread colours for your own reference, and play the stitch-out.
- Open File > Export (Ctrl+E), choose DST and download the file.
About the DST file
DST stores colour changes as stop codes. It does not store thread colours, so keep a note of which thread goes on which stop, or use the worksheet from the design. DST also limits a single stitch to about 12.1 mm, so longer moves are split.
The export writes the DST header with the stitch and colour-change counts and supports trims. Check your machine's maximum stitch count and hoop size before you load a large design.
A note on JPG quality
JPG compression adds blotchy pixels around edges, which can make automatic colour detection pick up extra, tiny regions. If you have the original vector or PNG, import that instead.
Questions
Do I need DST or PES?
Use the format your machine reads: DST for most commercial machines (Tajima and compatible), PES for Brother and Babylock, JEF for Janome. The file formats page lists them all.
Does DST keep my thread colours?
No. DST only stores where the colour changes happen. The design in the editor keeps your thread choices and you can print a worksheet.
Is there a limit on design size?
The free plan limits a design to 8,000 stitches. Paid plans have no stitch limit; your machine's own limits still apply.