File Formats
What is an EXP embroidery file?
EXP is the Melco "expanded" stitch format, used by Melco commercial machines and read by many Bernina home machines. Like DST, it stores stitches and commands but not thread colors. Bernina machines often use a small companion file for color information.
EXP (Melco) at a glance
| Full name | Melco Expanded |
|---|---|
| Read by | Melco (Amaya, Summit, EMT16), many Bernina models, most commercial software |
| Thread colors | Not stored in the file itself |
| Similar to | DST; both are commercial stitch formats |
| Bernina note | Newer Bernina machines prefer the native ART or EXP with a color file |
EXP in commercial shops
Melco machines read EXP natively (and DST). For a Melco shop, EXP and DST work almost identically. Choose whichever your workflow already uses. We include both.
EXP on Bernina machines
Many Bernina embroidery machines read EXP, often alongside companion INF/BMP files that carry the color sequence and preview image. Newer Bernina machines and software work best with the native ART format. Tell us your Bernina model and we'll send the best option.
EXP vs DST
Both are expanded stitch formats with no stored colors, and both handle trims through commands and jumps. Machine support is the practical difference: DST is universal across commercial brands, while EXP is Melco-first. When in doubt, use DST.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Still have a question? Email orders@digitizingdelight.com and a digitizer will answer, usually within an hour.
Is EXP the same as DST?
They're similar stitch formats but not identical. Melco machines read both. Most other commercial brands prefer DST.
Can Bernina read EXP files?
Many Bernina embroidery machines can. Newer models work best with the native ART format, which we can also supply.
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