print format

What is a .DST file?

DST is the most widely-supported machine-embroidery format, storing stitch coordinates rather than pixels.

Full name
Tajima Embroidery
Developed by
Tajima
Released
1980s
Extension
.dst
MIME type
application/octet-stream
Transparency
No

How to open a DST file

DST opens in Wilcom, Hatch and Embird, and loads on most embroidery machines.

What DST files are used for

Commercial printing

Accurate ink-based color on paper.

Embroidery & cutting

Machine-readable production files.

Document exchange

Layouts that look identical everywhere.

Strengths & limitations

✔ Strengths✖ Limitations
Excellent compatibilityNo transparency support

Need more than a conversion?

Remove the background from DST images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

DST is the most widely-supported machine-embroidery format, storing stitch coordinates rather than pixels.

DST opens in Wilcom, Hatch and Embird, and loads on most embroidery machines.

DST is optimised for its specific use rather than strictly lossless storage.

Use SharkFoto's free tools — upload your DST file and convert it to a more convenient format in seconds. It's free, processed securely and never stored.

No — DST doesn't store transparency; convert to PNG or WEBP if you need it.