When you need to convert an image to a DST embroidery file, the format of your source image affects the quality of the result — but perhaps not in the way you'd expect.

At DST Studio, we accept every major image format and convert them all to DST by hand. Here's a complete breakdown of what each format means for your digitizing project.

Any format works. DST Studio accepts PNG, JPG, PDF, AI, EPS, SVG, BMP, TIFF, PSD, and more. Our digitizers work from the image itself — not from automated tracing — so the format matters less than the clarity and detail of the artwork.

PNG files support transparency, which makes it easy to isolate your design from the background. They're lossless, meaning no quality is lost when saving.

Best for: Logos with transparent backgrounds, text-based designs, graphics with clean edges.

JPG is the most common image format and works perfectly for DST conversion. The only caveat is that very low-quality JPGs (heavily compressed, blurry, or pixelated) can make fine details harder to digitize accurately.

DST Studio tip: Send the highest-resolution JPG you have. A 300 DPI or higher image gives our digitizers the clearest view of your design.

PDF files often contain vector artwork embedded inside them, which gives our digitizers clean, scalable reference material.

Best for: Logos from print files, business cards, letterheads, official artwork files.

AI files are native vector format from Adobe Illustrator. They contain fully scalable artwork with clean paths and color information — one of the best formats for DST conversion.

EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) is a vector format used widely in professional design. Like AI files, EPS files are scalable and contain clean path data.

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is a web-standard vector format. It's fully scalable and works well for DST conversion.

BMP files are uncompressed raster images. Quality depends entirely on the resolution of the original image.

TIFF files are high-quality raster images used in professional photography and print. They're lossless and typically high-resolution, making them good source material for digitizing.

PSD files are native Photoshop files. They can contain layers, which sometimes helps our digitizers understand the structure of a complex design.

The format of your image matters less than these three factors:

Resolution: A high-resolution image (300 DPI or higher) gives our digitizers a clear, detailed view of your design.

Clarity: A clean, clear design with defined edges converts better than a blurry, low-contrast image.

Color information: Knowing your intended thread colors helps our digitizers match your design accurately.

At DST Studio, we don't turn away files because of format. Send us whatever you have — we'll convert it to a stitch-perfect DST file in 2 hours.

Pricing:

• Simple designs: $5
• Standard logos: $7
• Complex artwork: $15

All orders include free revisions and delivery in 20+ embroidery formats alongside your DST file.

Submit your artwork here and receive your DST file in 2 hours.