How to open DST and PES embroidery files
Got a .DST on WhatsApp, tapped it and nothing happened? That is normal. An embroidery file is the list of moves the needle makes, not a picture. You need something that can read those stitches.
Why it does not open as an image
DST, PES, JEF and EXP store coordinates: move this far right, this far down, stitch; jump; change thread; trim. Photo galleries and PDF viewers understand none of it. Only embroidery software, the machine or an embroidery viewer app draw the result.
On your phone
Save the file to the device and open it with an embroidery viewer app from your app store. Pick one that shows the stitch count, the size and the color changes, not only the drawing.
On your computer
On a computer the file opens in embroidery software: the machine brands’ own programs, Wilcom, Embird, Hatch or the free Ink/Stitch. There you can see the stitch-by-stitch simulation, the way the machine will sew it. Editing, resizing and converting are also done there.
Odd colors in a DST are normal
DST does not store thread colors, only the moment the thread changes. That is why each program shows different colors. The embroiderer follows the color sheet that comes with the file. PES stores Brother palette colors and looks closer to the real thing.
Not your machine format?
Converting from one format to another is quick, but check the result: trims, color order and size can change along the way. If the embroidery already came out bad, the problem is usually the file, and it is worth digitizing it again.