What happens to your PES file
Every needle point lands in the same place in the PEC file as in the PES 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 chart |
| Size and density | Unchanged |
Thread colours
PES and PEC each use their own fixed thread list, so each thread is matched to the nearest in the Brother 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
PEC 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 .pes 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 .pec 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 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.
On the machine itself, anything beyond the Brother chart: its screen shows the nearest of those 64 colours.
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.
The PEC file is for tools that use the Brother machine data on its own. Tools that ask for PEC by name. Otherwise choose PES.
Most people want PES rather than PEC, unless a specific tool asks for PEC.