Getting into machine embroidery is exciting, but the cost of software can be a real hurdle—especially if you’re just starting out. Luckily, there are several free digitized embroidery software options that let you create, edit, and test embroidery designs without spending a dime.
In this blog, we’ll explore what digitized embroidery software is, what you can (and can’t) do with free versions, and the best free tools available today for hobbyists and beginners. Whether you’re adding a monogram to a towel or experimenting with your first logo, these programs are a great way to dive into embroidery design.
What Is Digitized Embroidery Software?
Before diving into the tools, let’s clarify what we mean by "digitized embroidery software."
Embroidery digitizing is the process of turning a graphic (like a JPG, PNG, or SVG) into a stitch file that an embroidery machine can read. This stitch file contains instructions such as:
Stitch type (satin, fill, run)
Stitch path and direction
Thread color changes
Hoop placement
Digitizing software helps you create these files by either manually placing stitches or using auto-digitizing features. The result is a design your machine can follow—bringing your artwork to life on fabric.
Most professional software can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. That’s where free digitizing software becomes especially helpful for testing, learning, or small projects.
What to Expect From Free Embroidery Software
Free embroidery programs are usually limited in comparison to paid alternatives—but that doesn't mean they're useless. Here's what you can generally do with free tools:
✅ Open and view embroidery files
✅ Resize and recolor existing designs
✅ Add simple lettering or monograms
✅ Convert file formats
✅ Perform basic auto-digitizing
✅ Export in certain file types (.PES, .DST, etc.)
Here’s what you usually can’t do (or can only do with difficulty):
? Full manual digitizing
? Detailed stitch control (angle, underlay, density)
? Advanced editing of stitch-by-stitch designs
? Commercial-grade precision
That said, many free tools are perfect for beginners who want to experiment and learn before investing in premium software.
Best Free Digitized Embroidery Software in 2025
Let’s explore the top free digitizing embroidery software available right now.
1. Ink/Stitch (Open Source)
Best for: DIY digitizing, SVG users, and hobbyists who like flexibility
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Overview:
Ink/Stitch is an open-source extension for Inkscape, a free vector graphics program. It’s currently one of the most powerful free tools for true embroidery digitizing, allowing users to convert SVG shapes into embroidery paths.
Key Features:
Manual digitizing using vector paths
Supports many stitch types: satin, fill, running
Customizable stitch parameters (density, angle, etc.)
Simulates stitch preview and estimated thread count
Exports to common machine formats like .PES, .DST, .EXP
Pros:
Completely free and open-source
Ideal for users comfortable with design software
Very active developer and user community
Cons:
Steeper learning curve
Interface is not as polished as commercial software
Bottom line:
For a free option, Ink/Stitch offers the most complete digitizing capabilities—especially if you’re willing to invest time in learning.
2. mySewnet Embroidery Software (Free Basic Version)
Best for: Beginners who want a polished interface and easy edits
Platform: Windows, macOS
Overview:
mySewnet is a suite of embroidery tools from the makers of Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff machines. The basic version is free and includes some useful design tools for editing and organizing.
Key Features (Free Version):
Resize and rotate embroidery files
Preview stitches in realistic 3D
Add basic lettering and frames
Browse design libraries
Cloud sync with mySewnet account
Pros:
Clean, modern interface
Easy to learn
Can upgrade later if needed
Cons:
Limited digitizing tools in the free version
Some features only available with a paid subscription
Bottom line:
A great starting point for new machine embroiderers, especially if you own a compatible machine.
3. Bernina ArtLink 9
Best for: Bernina users or anyone needing simple edits
Platform: Windows
Overview:
ArtLink 9 is Bernina’s free embroidery design viewer and editor. While it doesn’t offer full digitizing capabilities, it allows for basic editing and preparation of designs for stitching.
Key Features:
Resize, mirror, and rotate designs
Adjust thread colors
Export designs to Bernina-compatible formats
Design placement and hoop templates
Pros:
Great for final prep before stitching
Reliable for basic design work
Free to download and use
Cons:
Not a full digitizing program
Windows-only
Bottom line:
Perfect for Bernina users and simple design tasks like resizing or preparing files for the hoop.
4. SophieSew (Beta Software)
Best for: Tinkering with early-stage digitizing features
Platform: Windows
Overview:
SophieSew is a lesser-known free embroidery program that offers manual digitizing tools, though it’s still in beta and not actively updated.
Key Features:
Create embroidery designs from scratch
Outline shapes and assign stitch types
Import and trace images
Basic text tools
Pros:
One of the few free tools with manual digitizing
Good for early learners wanting to test features
Cons:
Unstable or buggy at times
Outdated interface and no macOS support
Bottom line:
Not polished, but worth checking out if you want to experiment with stitch creation for free.
Honorable Mention: Free Trials of Paid Software
If you're willing to test the waters with time-limited free trials, some of the best digitizing programs offer full-featured demos:
Hatch Embroidery – 30-day free trial
Embrilliance StitchArtist – Demo version for exploring the interface
Wilcom – Trial version of Embroidery Studio
These are great for exploring what full digitizing software can do—just be aware the trial will expire.
Final Thoughts: Start Free, Learn Smart
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to start your embroidery journey. With the right free digitized embroidery software, you can learn the basics, test your designs, and develop your skills before making a financial commitment.
