What happens to your PEC file
Every needle point lands in the same place in the PES file as in the PEC file, and Hoopbench reads the new file back to prove it before you save it. The details below are what actually changes between these two formats.
| Stitch positions | Identical, to 0.1 mm |
|---|---|
| Colour stops | Same number, same order |
| Thread colours | Matched to the Brother and Baby Lock chart |
| Size and density | Unchanged |
Thread colours
PEC and PES each use their own fixed thread list, so each thread is matched to the nearest in the Brother and Baby Lock chart. Neighbouring stops stay different, and the names will change. Match by eye against your own spools if the exact shade matters.
Long moves
Both formats move at most 204.7 mm per record, so nothing needs splitting.
Trims
PES marks moves with a trim flag, so each trimmed move carries across. Brother machines cut on these moves, depending on the machine's own settings.
Before you stitch
- Open the .pec file above and watch it sew, so you know the file is sound and in the order you expect.
- Choose your hoop under Hoop fit. The check uses the design's real size, not the file's header.
- Download the .pes file, and stitch a test piece on matching fabric and stabiliser.
Converting doesn't resize a design or change its density. If a design needs to be much bigger or smaller, use digitising software, as stretching stitches without recalculating them can leave gaps or heavy spots.
About PEC
PEC is the machine section of a PES file on its own. It holds stitches, a list of slots in the 64 colour Brother chart, and small black and white thumbnails for the machine screen.
Exact thread colours. Only the Brother chart slot is stored, and the design name is cut to 8 characters.
About PES
PES is the Brother and Baby Lock format and probably the most common home embroidery file. Inside it is a PEC block, which is the part the machine actually sews, and in newer versions a list of exact thread colours for design software.
The PES file is for Brother and Baby Lock home machines, and many other machines and programs that accept it. Any Brother or Baby Lock machine. Hoopbench writes PES version 6, and version 1 if very old software needs it.
Brother machines only have a few hoop sizes, and a design that overhangs the hoop usually will not load. Check the size before you transfer it.