Do You Need to Worry About DPI When Converting SVGs to Embroidery Machine Files?
When working with embroidery machines, many people wonder if DPI (dots per inch) plays a role in converting SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) files into embroidery formats. Unlike raster images, which rely on DPI for resolution, embroidery designs function differently. So, do you really need to worry about DPI when converting SVGs for embroidery? The short answer is no—here’s why.
Understanding SVG and Embroidery Files
SVG files are vector-based, meaning they can be resized without losing quality. Embroidery machines, on the other hand, require stitch-based file formats like DST, PES, EXP, JEF, or VP3, which define how the machine sews the design rather than storing pixel data.

Why DPI Doesn’t Matter for SVG to Embroidery Conversion
DPI is only relevant for raster images (like JPEG or PNG), where resolution affects clarity when scaling. Since SVG files don’t use pixels, DPI is irrelevant when preparing a design for embroidery. Instead, the key considerations are:
- Stitch Density – Adjusting the number of stitches per inch to maintain proper fabric tension.
- Scaling – Ensuring the design size remains practical for embroidery without distorting stitch patterns.
- Thread Paths – Defining efficient stitch sequences to avoid unnecessary jumps or thread breaks.
The Only Time DPI Might Matter
If you are converting a raster image (like a PNG or JPG) into an SVG for embroidery, DPI could play a role in how accurately the image is traced. However, once the image is converted into an SVG and then digitized into an embroidery file, DPI is no longer relevant.
Best Practices for Converting SVG to Embroidery
- Use Embroidery Software – Programs like Ink/Stitch, Wilcom Hatch, or Embird allow you to convert SVGs into embroidery formats while ensuring proper stitch settings.
- Manually Adjust Stitch Density – Instead of worrying about DPI, focus on setting the right number of stitches per inch to avoid overly dense or sparse designs.
- Test on Scrap Fabric – Run a sample embroidery test to ensure the stitch path and density look correct at your chosen size.
- Resize Carefully – While vector files can be scaled infinitely, embroidery designs need to be adjusted with stitch density in mind to prevent distortion.
Size Considerations and Resizing Embroidery Designs
One of the biggest advantages of working with embroidery files is the ability to resize designs, but it must be done correctly to maintain quality. If you have the master embroidery file, such as an EMB file (Wilcom format), you can scale your design up or down while keeping proper stitch density and underlay settings intact.

For example, if you have an embroidery logo saved as an EMB file, you can resize it from 2 inches to 4 inches without losing stitch quality. However, if you attempt to resize a compiled stitch format like DST or PES without proper software, it can lead to overly dense or sparse stitching, causing puckering or gaps in the fabric. Always keep the master file to ensure flexibility in your designs.
Conclusion
DPI is not a concern when converting SVG files to embroidery machine formats. Instead, focus on stitch density, scaling, and thread paths to ensure a clean and well-stitched design. By using the right embroidery software and techniques, you can create high-quality embroidery designs without worrying about DPI at all. Happy stitching!

Barb, our resident quilter and embroidery aficionado, weaves a thread of creativity through our collection. Serving as the curator of machine embroidery content, Barb infuses each design with a touch of her artistic expertise. The free embroidery patterns you discover on our site often bear the mark of Barb’s craftsmanship. Let’s get crafting!