.EXP: Melco Expanded
A compact stitch format from Melco that is also the standard machine format for Bernina embroidery systems.
- Extension
- .exp
- File type
- Stitch (machine) file
- Used by
- Melco, Bernina
- Market
- Home and commercial
- Thread colors
- No colors (stops only)
- Status
- current
How it works
EXP has no header. Each stitch is two signed bytes for the X and Y move, with a range of 127 units (12.7 mm). Special two-byte escape codes before a move mark jumps, trims and color changes.
Since the file itself carries no colors, Bernina saves a companion file next to it (often .INF) with the thread colors, and Bernina software may also save a thumbnail. Copy those companion files together with the EXP if you want colors on the machine.
Because the format is so simple, it is easy for software to read and write and it travels well between programs.
What the file stores
- Stitches, jumps and trims
- Color change stops
Watch out for
- No colors inside the file itself.
- No header, so software cannot detect a wrong file extension.
Machines that read .EXP
- Bernina (native format)
- Melco (native format)
Support differs between models and generations, so always confirm in your machine's manual.
Related formats
Need this design in another format? Read converting between formats to learn what survives a conversion.