A VP3 file is the embroidery format used by Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff machines. It stores the stitches and color changes along with thread color information, and it can also carry thread names and numbers. To get a VP3 from a logo, JPG or PNG, the artwork has to be digitized into stitches and saved in VP3 format.
| VP3 | What to know |
|---|---|
| Read by | Current Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff embroidery machines |
| Thread colors | Yes, and it can carry thread names and catalog numbers |
| Replaced | HUS on Husqvarna Viking and PCS on Pfaff |
| In a SatinSmith download | VP3 plus 7 other formats, but not HUS or PCS |
What a VP3 file stores
A VP3 is a finished stitch file. It holds every stitch in sewing order, grouped into color blocks, and records a thread color for each block. Files from some programs also name the thread's brand and catalog number, which makes pulling the right spool easier. Like PES and JEF, it carries color; unlike DST, you don't have to work out which shade goes where.
It doesn't keep the original artwork or editable shapes, so be careful with size changes. A small adjustment on the machine is usually fine. For anything big, remake the design at the new size so the density and pull compensation are worked out again.
VP3, HUS and PCS: which does your machine need?
Before VP3, Husqvarna Viking machines used a format called HUS and Pfaff machines used PCS. VP3 is the newer format shared by both brands, and current machines read it. Some older models only read their original format, and the 8 formats in a SatinSmith download don't include HUS or PCS. If you have an older machine, check its manual for the supported formats before you download. If it only takes HUS or PCS, an embroidery program that writes those formats can convert the VP3 for you.
Making a VP3 from a logo or name
Upload or type
In the studio, upload your logo under Image, or use Lettering to type up to four lines with left, center or right alignment.
Size it for your hoop
Pick a preset or type a custom width. A Tote bag design is 180 mm (7.1 in) wide, twice the 90 mm of a Left chest logo, so it typically needs a 6×10 in hoop rather than a 4×4 in. The preview tells you the smallest standard hoop each one fits.
Choose the fabric
Pick Knit for t-shirts and hoodies, Towel for towels and fleece, or Woven for canvas and denim. Choosing fabric settings explains the difference each one makes.
Download
Check the stitch-out and the warnings, unlock the design and pick your machine, such as Husqvarna Viking or Pfaff. The VP3 is also in the .zip of all 8 formats.
For the full process, read how to turn a logo into an embroidery file. Sew a test on the same fabric and stabilizer before you stitch the real piece.
Getting a VP3 onto a Viking or Pfaff
Most Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff embroidery machines load designs from a USB stick: copy the VP3 across, plug it in and open it from the machine's file screen. Some newer Wi-Fi models can also receive designs through the brand's own app or cloud service. Each brand names and sizes its hoops a little differently, so match the design to the sewing area listed in your manual rather than the hoop's name.
Common VP3 problems
- The machine says the design is too large. Make it smaller in the Size panel and download again; re-downloading an unlocked design is free.
- The colors are close but not exact. The machine shows the color stored in the file, which is the nearest match from a thread chart, not your actual spool.
- An older machine won't open it. It may only read HUS or PCS. Check the list of supported formats in the manual.
- Puckering on stretchy fabric. That's a fabric setting or stabilizer issue, not the format. Use Knit and a cut-away stabilizer.
Questions
Can Pfaff machines read VP3 files?
Yes. Current Pfaff embroidery machines read VP3, as do current Husqvarna Viking machines. Some older Pfaff models use PCS instead, so check your manual if a VP3 won't open.
What's the difference between VP3 and HUS?
HUS is the older Husqvarna Viking format. VP3 replaced it, is shared with Pfaff, and can carry more thread detail, such as names and numbers. Newer machines read VP3, while some older ones only read HUS.
Can SatinSmith make HUS or PCS files?
No. Every download includes VP3, DST, PES, JEF, EXP, XXX, U01 and PEC, but not HUS or PCS. If your machine only reads one of those older formats, convert the VP3 in an embroidery program that supports it, and test-sew the result.