Appendix 2 - Open File Format for Embroidery

It is proposed that an open format be made available to allow the interchange of embroidery designs.

XML has the potential to be presented in various formats, a web-site could store one file and provide downloads in various embroidery machine formats, as well as, human usable representation of the design.

The document is designed for both embroidery pattern interchange and embroidery design.

Embroidery Pattern Interchange

Embroidery Patten Interchange has to provide:

information for the user - to allow them evaluate the pattern
information for the machine - to allow it to stitch the pattern

Embroidery Design

The user manipulates elements of the design, creating and editing areas of colour

Document Structure

element

hoop

thread

The embroidery element is a container for the other elements. It has attributes for width and height. If no hoop elements are provided, it assumes the role of a hoop.

The hoop element helps divide the design into machine manageable portions.

The thread element can pre-define a thread and contain no stitch instructions or provide thread information for the stitch instructions.