EXP EMBROIDERY FORMAT GUIDE
What Is an EXP Embroidery File?
EXP is a stitch-oriented machine embroidery format used in Melco workflows and certain other systems. Thread-color display can depend on separate information and the application importing the design.
Standard embroidery digitizing from $10. Final quote depends on size and complexity.
Extension
.exp
Commonly used with
Melco and selected other embroidery workflows
Exact color metadata
Often requires companion information
Important distinction
EXP workflows are not all identical
From artwork to EXP: how digitizing works
1. Artwork
JPG, PNG or vector image
2. Stitch planning
Design size, fabric, underlay and density
3. EXP export
Machine file plus review
A renamed image is not a stitch file. A digital stitch preview is not the same as a physical test sew-out.
What information is inside an EXP file?
EXP stores embroidery stitch movements intended for compatible embroidery software and machines. The standard stitch-oriented data does not necessarily include a full editable object-based design or a complete thread palette. A native project is preferable when major changes are expected.
Why are there separate EXP color files?
Some embroidery programs rely on companion files or software-specific project information to show the intended sequence of thread colors alongside an EXP stitch file. If those files are missing, software may display defaults. Preserve the original color reference and follow your software’s import guidance.
Which machines use EXP?
EXP is associated with Melco commercial embroidery. Some Bernina software and models also use EXP-based import workflows, but may require additional companion files or other conditions. Do not assume an EXP exported for one system is automatically equivalent to another system’s preferred workflow.
How do I open an EXP file?
Use software or a machine interface that explicitly lists the relevant EXP format as supported. Open the file, inspect stitch sequence, design dimensions, thread assignments and any companion file requirements. Confirm the embroidery field and fabric settings before running production.
How is EXP different from DST?
Both are often used as stitch-oriented production outputs rather than full working files. Differences in command interpretation, format handling and related color information depend on the originating and receiving software. The safest process is exporting the requested machine file from the original editable digitizing design.
How do I create an EXP file from a logo?
Send your logo or artwork together with finished embroidery dimensions, garment, machine model and desired format. A digitizer creates stitch objects with suitable underlay, density and sequencing, then exports an EXP file through compatible software. A raster image is not an EXP embroidery design.
Can I convert EXP to PES or DST?
Compatible programs may import EXP stitches and export PES or DST. The output cannot magically reconstruct original editable shapes or missing color information. If the result must be resized or reconstructed for a different fabric, use the source digitizing project when possible.
Common EXP problems
Missing colors can mean that a companion thread file was not included or the viewer mapped colors differently. A refused design can indicate incompatible format flavor, improper loading, excessive dimensions or model restrictions. Verify your exact embroidery machine and software before troubleshooting stitches.
Format-specific guidance and limitations
BERNINA software documents EXP-based export and related workflow details. This is not a promise that a Melco-oriented EXP output and a BERNINA-oriented EXP package will behave identically. Export for the receiving machine and preserve companion color data when that workflow requires it.
Reference: BERNINA embroidery machine-file export help (opens in a new tab). Check the exact machine model manual before production.
Frequently asked EXP questions
Is EXP only for Melco machines?
No. It is closely associated with Melco, but certain other workflows, including some Bernina setups, support EXP-based files.
Does an EXP file include thread colors?
Not always as a self-contained full palette; companion information may be required.
Can I open EXP on any embroidery machine?
No. Compatibility must be checked against the specific software and machine model.
Is EXP the same as an editable working file?
No. A production EXP stitch output usually has fewer editing capabilities than its native digitizing project.
Need a machine-ready EXP file?
Upload artwork and include the finished size, material and exact embroidery machine model. We'll prepare a quote based on your specifications.
Order embroidery digitizing →