Hoopbench

Melco Expanded files

EXP is the expanded format from Melco, also widely used with Bernina. It has no header at all: the file is simply two bytes per stitch, with control codes for jumps, trims and colour changes.

Open a .exp file

Used by

Melco machines and Bernina machines and software.

What it keeps

Stitch positions, jumps, trims and colour stops.

What it can't hold

Thread colours, the design name and the size summary, because there is no header to hold them.

What to watch for

With no header, a damaged EXP can look valid. Hoopbench checks that the stitches make sense and tells you if they do not.

Best for

Melco and Bernina users, and a simple exchange file where a header is not needed.