Convert TIFF to SHV

Understanding TIFF and SHV file formats

TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) is a widely used raster image format known for its high quality and support for multiple layers and pages. It is commonly used in photography, publishing, and scanning due to its lossless compression and flexibility.

SHV is a proprietary embroidery file format used by Husqvarna Viking embroidery machines. SHV files contain stitch data, color information, and design layout for automated embroidery. They are not standard image files and require specialized software to create or edit.

How to convert TIFF to SHV

Converting a TIFF image to an SHV embroidery file is not a direct process, as SHV files require vectorized stitch data rather than pixel-based images. The conversion involves two main steps:

1. Digitize the TIFF image: Use embroidery digitizing software to import the TIFF and manually or automatically convert the image into stitch paths.
2. Export as SHV: Save or export the digitized design in the SHV format compatible with Husqvarna Viking machines.

Recommended software for TIFF to SHV conversion

The best software for this conversion is Hatch Embroidery or Wilcom Embroidery Studio. These programs support importing raster images (like TIFF), digitizing them, and exporting to various embroidery formats, including SHV.

• Hatch Embroidery: Import your TIFF file using File → Import Image, digitize the design, then export using File → Export Design → Husqvarna Viking (.shv).
• Wilcom Embroidery Studio: Open your TIFF with File → Import, use the digitizing tools, and save as SHV via File → Save As and select the SHV format.

Note: Automatic digitizing may not always produce optimal results. Manual adjustment of stitch paths and colors is often necessary for high-quality embroidery output.

Online converters and alternatives

There are currently no reliable online converters that can directly convert TIFF to SHV due to the complexity of embroidery digitizing. Using professional embroidery software is the recommended approach.

Summary

To convert a TIFF image to an SHV embroidery file, use specialized embroidery digitizing software like Hatch Embroidery or Wilcom Embroidery Studio. Import the TIFF, digitize the design, and export as SHV for use with Husqvarna Viking machines.