Embroidery machines use different file formats to read stitch information, and OFM is one of the most advanced formats used mainly by Melco machines. Many embroiderers often need to convert OFM files because they work with multiple machine brands or receive artwork from clients who use different systems. While several tools allow basic conversion, getting a clean, accurate result is not always straightforward. Settings such as density, underlay, and color sequencing can shift during conversion, so a deeper understanding of digitizing or simply hiring a professional digitizing service helps ensure the final file stitches perfectly on any machine.

2. What Is an OFM File?

Designed for Melco Machines

The OFM format was created specifically for Melco embroidery machines, allowing the system to read detailed design data and run complex stitching patterns smoothly.

Object-Based and Fully Editable

Unlike basic stitch files, OFM is an object-based format. This means it stores editable elements such as stitches, underlay types, density levels, color information, trims, and machine commands. Each part of the design can be adjusted without losing quality.

More Flexible Than Simple Stitch Formats

Simple embroidery file formats like DST or PES only contain final stitch coordinates. OFM files, however, retain complete design structure, making them easier to resize, modify, and prepare for different fabrics. This flexibility makes OFM ideal for professionals who need precise control over every detail of an embroidery design.

Check out a brief Introduction in this tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45bRyshoF4M

3. Why Convert an OFM File?

To Use the Design on Multiple Machine Brands

Many embroidery businesses work with different machine types such as Brother, Tajima, Janome, and Barudan. Since OFM is primarily a Melco format, converting it into DST, PES, EXP, JEF, or other machine-specific formats is essential to run the same design across all machines smoothly.

Customer or Print Shop Requirements

Clients often send files in the format they have available, which may not match the machine you use. Converting an OFM file ensures you can deliver the final stitched product regardless of how the artwork was originally created.

Compatibility for Different Embroidery Projects

Different projects, such as caps, patches, jackets, hoodies, and bags may require specific formats or settings for the best results. Converting the OFM file allows you to adjust the design for the exact fabric, structure, and hooping method, ensuring cleaner, more accurate stitching.

4. How to Convert an OFM File (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Open the OFM File in Compatible Software

Start by opening the design in Melco DesignShop or any software that fully supports OFM files. Make sure it loads all stitch objects, colors, underlay settings, and commands correctly before proceeding.

Step 2: Check Key Design Settings

Before converting, review the important elements of the design, including:

Stitch density
Underlay type
Pull compensation
Satin and fill areas

Make note of anything that might behave differently once converted into a simpler stitch format.

Step 3: Choose Your Target Format

Select the embroidery file type your machine needs, such as DST, PES, EXP, JEF, or VP3. Always confirm compatibility with your specific model so the file runs smoothly during stitching.

Step 4: Convert or Export the File

Use the “Save As” or “Export” option to convert the OFM to the required format. Be sure to check that the color palette and stops align with the destination machine’s color system.

Step 5: Recheck the Converted File

Open the newly converted file to inspect it carefully. Verify:

Stitch count
Correct sequencing
Color changes
Underlay visibility

Look out for missing stitches, unexpected gaps, or distortion.

Step 6: Test Stitching on Scrap Fabric

Before moving to the actual product, run a test stitch-out on similar fabric. This helps you adjust density or pull compensation if needed and ensures the final result is clean and accurate.

5.Which Software Tools Are Used to Open Embroidery OFM Files?

Embroidery OFM files are a specialized, object-based embroidery format mainly used with Melco embroidery systems. Unlike simple stitch-only files, OFM files store detailed design data such as stitch objects, colors, sequencing, and machine-specific settings. Because of this, they can only be opened using embroidery-specific software that supports the OFM structure.

Below are the most common software tools used to open and work with OFM files:

Melco DesignShop

Melco DesignShop is the primary and most reliable software for opening OFM files. It supports the format natively and allows full access to the design, including resizing, recoloring, editing stitch objects, adding lettering, and adjusting machine settings. This software is commonly used by embroidery professionals who run Melco machines and need complete control over their designs.

Melco Machine Operating Systems (Bravo / Melco OS)

Many Melco embroidery machines come with built-in operating systems that can open OFM files directly on the machine. This allows operators to preview designs, make minor adjustments, and run jobs without transferring files to a separate computer. It’s especially useful in production environments where speed and efficiency matter.

Wilcom Embroidery Studio (Limited or Indirect Support)

Wilcom is a widely used professional embroidery digitizing software. While its native format is EMB, certain versions or configurations can import or convert OFM files. In most cases, OFM files are first exported or converted into a compatible format before full editing. This makes Wilcom a practical option for shops that work with multiple embroidery formats.

Third-Party Viewers and Conversion Tools

Some third-party embroidery viewers and converters can open OFM files for viewing or basic conversion, particularly on macOS systems. These tools usually do not offer advanced editing features but are helpful for checking stitch layouts, colors, and general design structure before converting to another format.

Using OFM Files with Other Software

If your embroidery software does not support OFM directly, the usual approach is to open the file in Melco-compatible software first and then export it to a more universal format such as DST, EXP, or PES. This allows the design to be used across different machines, though some object-level editing data may be lost during conversion.

In short:

For full editing and accuracy, Melco DesignShop and Melco machine software are the best tools for OFM files. Other professional embroidery programs can work with OFM designs through conversion, while viewers and converters are useful for inspection and format compatibility.

Hire Professional Services

Mastering these tools takes time. Understanding density, stitch types, fabric behavior, and machine logic is important for clean results. For many users, this learning curve can be long and technically demanding. Hiring Professional Digitizing Services is the smarter choice.

6. Best Practices for Smooth Conversions

Test Before Production

Always run a test stitch-out to catch issues before stitching on a final product. Even small errors can affect quality.

Keep Original Files Saved Safely

Never edit or overwrite your master OFM file. Keeping a clean original makes adjustments easier.

Avoid Extreme Scaling

Large increases or reductions in size can distort satin columns, density, and underlay. Resize cautiously to prevent quality loss.

Adjust for Fabric Type

Different fabrics require different densities and underlay settings. Make sure your converted file is optimized for the material you’re stitching on.

7. Why Hire a Professional Digitizing Service

For Complex or Detailed Designs

Some OFM conversions require more than a simple export. Detailed logos, small text, or layered objects often need manual adjustments to preserve density, underlay, and stitch quality. This is where professional expertise becomes especially useful.

To Save Time and Prevent Material Waste

Incorrect conversions can lead to thread breaks, puckering, or distorted stitching. Instead of risking ruined garments or wasted patches, many users prefer letting an expert handle the technical work.

Avoiding Expensive Software and Long Learning Curves

Digitizing software can be costly, and mastering stitch settings, compensation, and fabric behavior takes time. Hiring a professional digitizing Service allows you to skip the learning curve and focus on your actual business or creative projects.

For Files That Must Run Perfectly the First Time

Professionals understand how different machines read stitch data. They ensure the converted file is optimized so it runs smoothly on your specific machine right from the start, with no trial-and-error.

9. Conclusion

OFM file conversion is an important part of modern embroidery work, allowing designs to move smoothly between different machine brands and project types. While anyone can attempt basic conversions, the quality of the final stitch-out depends heavily on accuracy, proper settings, and attention to detail. For those working with tight deadlines, complex designs, or projects that must turn out perfectly, using an expert service is always a reliable option. Whether you convert files yourself or seek professional help, the goal remains the same clean, consistent, and professional stitching every time.

Get your Instant Free Quote at Digitizing Buddy for OFM Embroidery File Conversion.