Quick Overview
- 1#1: Wilcom EmbroideryStudio - Professional embroidery digitizing, editing, and production software with advanced vector, photo-realistic, and lettering tools.
- 2#2: Hatch by Wilcom - User-friendly embroidery software suite for digitizing, monogramming, and auto-digitizing with modular modules for all skill levels.
- 3#3: Embrilliance - Affordable, modular embroidery software for lettering, editing, monogramming, and digitizing with intuitive tools for hobbyists and pros.
- 4#4: Embird - Modular embroidery design editor, converter, and digitizer supporting cross-stitch, applique, and thousands of formats.
- 5#5: Floriani Total Control U - Comprehensive embroidery software for digitizing, editing, 3D visualization, and production with waveform tools and video tutorials.
- 6#6: Bernina Embroidery Software 9 - Advanced embroidery creation software with 3D preview, auto-digitizing, and integration for Bernina machines.
- 7#7: PE-DESIGN 11 - Embroidery design software optimized for Brother machines with photo stitch, auto-punch, and customizable fonts.
- 8#8: Artistic Digitizer - Professional digitizing software for converting artwork to embroidery with advanced gradient fills and sequencing.
- 9#9: SewWhat-Pro - Embroidery design editor for resizing, splitting, merging, and cleaning designs with precise stitch editing.
- 10#10: Ink/Stitch - Free, open-source embroidery digitizer extension for Inkscape supporting vector-based design conversion.
We selected and ranked these tools by evaluating functionality (digitizing, editing, format support), output quality (vector, photo-realistic, stitch precision), user-friendliness across skill levels, and overall value, ensuring a guide that balances power and accessibility.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines leading machine embroidery software, including Wilcom EmbroideryStudio, Hatch by Wilcom, Embrilliance, Embird, and Floriani Total Control U, helping readers understand key features and compatibility to find their ideal tool.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wilcom EmbroideryStudio Professional embroidery digitizing, editing, and production software with advanced vector, photo-realistic, and lettering tools. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | Hatch by Wilcom User-friendly embroidery software suite for digitizing, monogramming, and auto-digitizing with modular modules for all skill levels. | creative_suite | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Embrilliance Affordable, modular embroidery software for lettering, editing, monogramming, and digitizing with intuitive tools for hobbyists and pros. | creative_suite | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Embird Modular embroidery design editor, converter, and digitizer supporting cross-stitch, applique, and thousands of formats. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 5 | Floriani Total Control U Comprehensive embroidery software for digitizing, editing, 3D visualization, and production with waveform tools and video tutorials. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Bernina Embroidery Software 9 Advanced embroidery creation software with 3D preview, auto-digitizing, and integration for Bernina machines. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | PE-DESIGN 11 Embroidery design software optimized for Brother machines with photo stitch, auto-punch, and customizable fonts. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Artistic Digitizer Professional digitizing software for converting artwork to embroidery with advanced gradient fills and sequencing. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | SewWhat-Pro Embroidery design editor for resizing, splitting, merging, and cleaning designs with precise stitch editing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | Ink/Stitch Free, open-source embroidery digitizer extension for Inkscape supporting vector-based design conversion. | other | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 10/10 |
Professional embroidery digitizing, editing, and production software with advanced vector, photo-realistic, and lettering tools.
User-friendly embroidery software suite for digitizing, monogramming, and auto-digitizing with modular modules for all skill levels.
Affordable, modular embroidery software for lettering, editing, monogramming, and digitizing with intuitive tools for hobbyists and pros.
Modular embroidery design editor, converter, and digitizer supporting cross-stitch, applique, and thousands of formats.
Comprehensive embroidery software for digitizing, editing, 3D visualization, and production with waveform tools and video tutorials.
Advanced embroidery creation software with 3D preview, auto-digitizing, and integration for Bernina machines.
Embroidery design software optimized for Brother machines with photo stitch, auto-punch, and customizable fonts.
Professional digitizing software for converting artwork to embroidery with advanced gradient fills and sequencing.
Embroidery design editor for resizing, splitting, merging, and cleaning designs with precise stitch editing.
Free, open-source embroidery digitizer extension for Inkscape supporting vector-based design conversion.
Wilcom EmbroideryStudio
enterpriseProfessional embroidery digitizing, editing, and production software with advanced vector, photo-realistic, and lettering tools.
TrueView™ photorealistic preview for accurate stitch simulation before production
Wilcom EmbroideryStudio is the premier professional-grade embroidery digitizing software used by commercial embroiderers worldwide to create, edit, and produce high-quality embroidery designs. It offers advanced tools for vector-to-embroidery conversion, custom lettering with over 1,000 fonts, automatic digitizing from images, and precise stitch sequencing optimized for multi-head machines. The software supports over 100 embroidery file formats and includes realistic previews via TrueView technology for flawless production results.
Pros
- Unmatched precision in digitizing and editing tools
- Broad compatibility with machines, formats, and fonts
- Advanced automation features like PhotoStitch and gradient fills
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High upfront cost and system requirements
- Subscription model adds ongoing expenses
Best For
Professional embroidery businesses and digitizers handling high-volume, complex designs for commercial production.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,999 for core version, with premium editions up to $9,999+; annual maintenance/subscription ~20% of license cost.
Hatch by Wilcom
creative_suiteUser-friendly embroidery software suite for digitizing, monogramming, and auto-digitizing with modular modules for all skill levels.
Accelerate auto-digitizing, which converts vector artwork into high-quality, production-ready embroidery with minimal manual adjustments
Hatch by Wilcom is a powerful embroidery digitizing software suite designed for hobbyists, small businesses, and professionals seeking high-quality machine embroidery designs. It offers advanced tools for creating, editing, and optimizing designs, including auto-digitizing, lettering, appliqué, and sequencing for multi-needle machines. Compatible with most embroidery formats and machines, Hatch bridges the gap between beginner-friendly interfaces and professional-grade capabilities.
Pros
- Exceptional digitizing tools with precise stitch control and auto-digitizing
- Modular upgrade system allows customization to user needs
- Extensive tutorials, libraries, and compatibility with major embroidery machines
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive interface
- Windows-only, no Mac support
- Higher upfront cost compared to basic consumer software
Best For
Intermediate to professional embroiderers and small businesses needing robust digitizing without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Modular perpetual licenses starting at $299 for E-Stitch basics, up to $1,699 for full Digitizer suite; optional annual upgrades around $199.
Embrilliance
creative_suiteAffordable, modular embroidery software for lettering, editing, monogramming, and digitizing with intuitive tools for hobbyists and pros.
Modular add-on system for tailored functionality without overpaying for unused features
Embrilliance is a modular embroidery software suite starting with the free Essentials app, which allows users to view, convert, organize, and make basic edits to embroidery files across major formats. Paid add-on modules like Alpha Tricks for advanced lettering, Monogrammer for personalization, and Stitch Artist (in three levels) for digitizing enable customization based on user needs. Compatible with Windows and Mac, it's designed for hobbyists and semi-professionals seeking flexible tools without a hefty upfront cost.
Pros
- Modular pricing allows buying only needed features
- Intuitive, beginner-friendly interface
- Strong lettering and basic digitizing capabilities
Cons
- Full functionality requires multiple add-on purchases
- Less suited for complex professional production
- Steeper learning curve for advanced modules
Best For
Hobbyist embroiderers and small business owners seeking affordable, expandable tools for design editing and custom lettering.
Pricing
Free Essentials; add-ons $150-$650 each (e.g., Alpha Tricks $170, Stitch Artist Level 3 $650); bundles available.
Embird
specializedModular embroidery design editor, converter, and digitizer supporting cross-stitch, applique, and thousands of formats.
Unmatched compatibility with 70+ embroidery formats for easy import/export and conversion
Embird is a modular embroidery software suite designed for digitizing, editing, converting, and managing embroidery designs across a wide range of machines and formats. It offers core tools for design manipulation, true color photo stitch, and basic lettering, with optional plugins extending capabilities to advanced alphabets, cross-stitch, applique, and more. Supporting over 70 embroidery file formats, it's a versatile solution for importing, exporting, and customizing designs for professional and hobbyist use.
Pros
- Exceptional support for 70+ embroidery file formats with seamless conversion
- Modular plugin system allows customization without unnecessary bloat
- Strong value with lifetime licenses and frequent free updates
Cons
- Dated interface feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for digitizing and advanced plugins
- Many key features locked behind paid add-ons
Best For
Budget-conscious hobbyists and small business embroiderers needing broad format compatibility and expandable tools.
Pricing
Core Editor $163 lifetime; plugins $50-$200 each (e.g., Alphabet $94, Cross Stitch $163); no subscription.
Floriani Total Control U
specializedComprehensive embroidery software for digitizing, editing, 3D visualization, and production with waveform tools and video tutorials.
Advanced Reshape XP tool for precise vector-based design reshaping and editing
Floriani Total Control U is a professional-grade embroidery software suite designed for digitizing, editing, and managing machine embroidery designs. It provides advanced tools for converting images into stitches, creating custom lettering, and optimizing designs for various embroidery machines. With features like 3D previews, auto-digitizing, and extensive editing capabilities, it supports multiple file formats and hoops for seamless workflow integration.
Pros
- Powerful digitizing tools including auto-digitizing and vector editing
- Extensive built-in library of over 700 designs and 200+ fonts
- Broad compatibility with major embroidery machines and formats
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
- High upfront cost with limited upgrade discounts
- Occasional performance issues with large designs
Best For
Professional embroiderers and advanced hobbyists needing robust digitizing and customization tools.
Pricing
One-time purchase at $1,299 for the full version; upgrades available for previous owners.
Bernina Embroidery Software 9
enterpriseAdvanced embroidery creation software with 3D preview, auto-digitizing, and integration for Bernina machines.
Bernina-specific Stitch Simulator with 3D thread visualization for realistic design previews
Bernina Embroidery Software 9 is a professional-grade application for designing, editing, and managing embroidery patterns optimized for Bernina machines. It provides advanced auto-digitizing, extensive lettering and monogramming tools, 3D visualization, and quilting modules to create complex designs with precision. The software includes a vast library of built-in designs, fonts, and motifs, supporting multiple hoop sizes and formats for versatile embroidery production.
Pros
- Advanced digitizing and auto-digitizing tools for complex designs
- Seamless integration with Bernina embroidery machines and hardware
- Comprehensive 3D preview and stitch simulation for accurate results
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High cost with dongle required
- Limited compatibility with non-Bernina machines
Best For
Professional embroiderers and Bernina machine owners needing advanced design customization and production tools.
Pricing
Artist edition ~$1,500; DesignerPlus ~$3,000-$5,000; requires USB dongle.
PE-DESIGN 11
specializedEmbroidery design software optimized for Brother machines with photo stitch, auto-punch, and customizable fonts.
PhotoStitch technology that transforms full-color photos into highly realistic, multi-layered embroidery artwork with customizable stitch types.
PE-DESIGN 11 is a professional-grade embroidery digitizing software from Brother designed for creating, editing, and managing embroidery designs compatible with Brother sewing and embroidery machines. It features advanced tools like auto-digitizing from images, PhotoStitch for converting photos into embroidery art, and precise stitch editing with 3D previews. The software includes a vast library of over 1,000 built-in designs, fonts, and patterns, supporting multiple file formats for versatile workflow.
Pros
- Extensive digitizing tools including auto-punch and PhotoStitch for complex designs
- Large built-in library of fonts, patterns, and alphabets
- Accurate 3D embroidery simulator and real-time stitch editing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to dense interface
- High upfront cost with no subscription option
- Primarily optimized for Brother machines, limited broad compatibility
Best For
Experienced embroiderers and professionals using Brother machines who need powerful digitizing capabilities for custom designs.
Pricing
One-time purchase of approximately $1,299 for the full version; no free trial or subscription available.
Artistic Digitizer
specializedProfessional digitizing software for converting artwork to embroidery with advanced gradient fills and sequencing.
Reshape tools that allow intuitive modification of existing designs without redigitizing
Artistic Digitizer is a professional-grade embroidery digitizing software from Janome, designed to convert artwork, photos, and vector files into high-quality machine embroidery designs. It offers advanced auto-digitizing tools, precise stitch editing, and features like PhotoStitch Pro for transforming images into realistic embroidery. Compatible with most embroidery machines, it supports multiple file formats, hoop sizes, and includes a vast library of fonts and designs for customization.
Pros
- Powerful auto-digitizing and PhotoStitch for quick image-to-embroidery conversion
- Advanced editing tools like Reshape and intelligent fills for professional results
- Broad machine compatibility and extensive font/design libraries
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant practice
- High upfront cost for full-featured versions
- Resource-heavy, demanding a capable computer
Best For
Experienced embroiderers and commercial businesses needing robust digitizing for complex, custom designs.
Pricing
One-time purchase: $299 for Digitizer Jr, $999 for Edge, up to $1,699 for full Pro suite; free trial available.
SewWhat-Pro
specializedEmbroidery design editor for resizing, splitting, merging, and cleaning designs with precise stitch editing.
Seamless TrueType font conversion to embroidery lettering with adjustable density and kerning
SewWhat-Pro is a lightweight Windows-based embroidery editing software designed for opening, viewing, editing, and converting designs across over 70 popular embroidery file formats like DST, PES, and JEF. It excels in basic to intermediate editing tasks such as resizing, rotating, mirroring, merging multiple designs, and adding customizable lettering from TrueType fonts. While it lacks advanced auto-digitizing or full design creation from scratch, it's a reliable tool for customizing existing embroidery files for home machines.
Pros
- Supports over 70 embroidery formats for broad compatibility
- Affordable one-time purchase with no subscriptions
- Intuitive tools for resizing, merging, and lettering without quality loss
Cons
- Windows-only, no Mac or Linux support
- Limited advanced digitizing or photo-stitch capabilities
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Hobbyist embroiderers and home sewists who primarily edit and customize existing designs rather than create new ones from scratch.
Pricing
One-time purchase of $85 for the full version; free trial available.
Ink/Stitch
otherFree, open-source embroidery digitizer extension for Inkscape supporting vector-based design conversion.
Parametric objects that generate infinitely variable embroidery designs from adjustable parameters
Ink/Stitch is a free, open-source extension for the Inkscape vector graphics editor that enables users to convert vector designs into embroidery files compatible with most machines. It provides advanced digitizing tools, including stitch types like satin, fill, and running stitches, along with features for underlays, pull compensation, and optimization. The software stands out for its parametric objects, allowing complex, customizable designs generated from simple inputs.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Extensive stitch types, optimizations, and machine format support
- Powerful parametric design tools for reusable, customizable patterns
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for Inkscape newcomers
- Interface tied to Inkscape, lacking embroidery-specific polish
- Occasional bugs or limitations in complex auto-digitizing
Best For
Hobbyists and budget-conscious designers familiar with vector graphics seeking professional embroidery capabilities without subscription fees.
Pricing
Free (open-source, no paid tiers)
Conclusion
The review highlights standout software, with Wilcom EmbroideryStudio leading as the top choice, offering advanced tools for professional digitizing and production. Hatch by Wilcom impresses as a user-friendly, modular suite suitable for all skill levels, while Embrilliance stands out for its affordability and intuitive tools, catering to both hobbyists and pros. Together, these options showcase the breadth of capabilities in machine embroidery software.
Explore Wilcom EmbroideryStudio to unlock its robust features and elevate your embroidery projects, whether you’re a professional or a passionate hobbyist.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison