PEmbroider vs Stitch Era

PEmbroider is a Java library for generating computational embroidery designs in Processing. Its drawing functions handle lines, shapes, and typography, while shape tools support overlap, cropping, merging, and a range of embroidery fills. Designs can start from SVG files or black-and-white PNG and GIF images. The library generates DST, EXP, JEF, PEC, PES, VP3, and XXX files for consumer CNC embroidery machines. It also exports PDF, SVG, TSV, and GCODE for other 2D output devices, including CNC routers and AxiDraw pen plotters. A modified Traveling Salesperson Problem solver creates shorter paths intended to reduce embroidery time and material use. PEmbroider can visualize files it generates, but cannot load or preview existing embroidery files. It integrates with Processing and can be installed through its Contribution Manager or from a ZIP library. The instructions require Processing 4.0a6 or later, with a separate download for Processing 3 users. It is free under GPLv3 and ACSL 1.4 and was developed during Endless March 2020 at Carnegie Mellon University's Frank-Ratchye STUDIO for Creative Inquiry.

Stitch Era is paid embroidery design software for small apparel-decoration shops and home embroiderers. It can digitize raster or vector artwork automatically or manually, convert raster images into editable vector objects, and export designs in commercial machine formats. Users can edit individual stitches by changing stitch types, moving endpoints, or adding and deleting stitches. Lettering supports pre-digitized and computer-installed TrueType fonts. The maker lists compatibility with most embroidery machine brands and models, including formats such as DST, PES, JEF, HUS, PHB, PHC, PEC, SEW, VIP, PCM, PCS, EXP, 10O, U01, FDR, FMC, ZSK, TAP, INB, SST, KSM, Juki AMS, and 100. Features may vary by software level or configuration, with design limits of up to 12,000 or 40,000 stitches. A functional trial is available, but its duration is unspecified. The maker recommends 64-bit Windows 11 Professional; some Windows 10 64-bit systems may work. Mac use through virtual machines is not offered, warranted, or supported. Subscription licenses require a permanent high-speed internet connection. Pricing is available on request.