embroider.app
Photo → embroidery file

How do I convert a photo into an embroidery file?

Upload the photo at embroider.app/generate and the app turns it into a patch design and a real machine stitch path in about 15 seconds, all in your browser. You can inspect stitch count, size and thread colors before you pay, then download the file as DST (Tajima/commercial) or PES (Brother/Babylock). Previewing is free; a download is $4.99, or $19 for ten.

Try it — upload an image

Step by step

  1. 01Crop your photo to the subject — patches are small, so tight framing reads better.
  2. 02Upload it at embroider.app/generate (PNG or JPG).
  3. 03Review the patch design and the exact stitch path side by side.
  4. 04Reduce colors if the design looks too dense for your machine.
  5. 05Download DST or PES, plus a high-resolution preview image.

Good to know

Photos need simplification

Thread cannot reproduce a photo's full gradient range. The app reduces your image to a limited thread palette — busy backgrounds and small faces are the usual failure cases.

Which format?

Brother and Babylock read PES. Tajima and most commercial machines read DST. embroider.app exports both today; JEF, EXP, HUS and VP3 are not supported yet.

Sew settings

Use a cutaway stabilizer for dense fills, hoop tightly, and slow the machine down on high stitch counts. Finish patch edges with a satin border or a heat-cut backing.

Frequently asked

Can any photo become an embroidery file?+

Most can, but thread cannot reproduce a photo's full gradient range. Tightly cropped subjects with clear contrast convert well; busy group shots and tiny faces do not.

How long does the conversion take?+

About 15 seconds from upload to a viewable patch design and exact stitch path in your browser.

Which formats do I get?+

DST for Tajima and commercial machines, PES for Brother and Babylock, plus a high-resolution PNG preview. JEF, EXP, HUS and VP3 are not supported.

Do I need to install software or create an account?+

Neither. Everything runs in the browser and downloads are tied to your browser session, not a login.

What does it cost?+

Previewing is free. A download is $4.99, or $19 for a pack of ten downloads.

Preview is free. Downloads are $4.99 for one, or $19 for ten. No account required.

Generate your file

Keep reading

More reading on the embroider.app blog.