Embroidery file formats

.SHV embroidery files (Husqvarna Viking embroidery stitch file)

SHV is a Husqvarna Viking stitch format that mySewnet lists beside HUS. It stores stitches, thread colors and a large black and white picture. The sources do not say which models use it, so check your manual.

Extension.SHV
Comes fromHusqvarna Viking
Native onHusqvarna Viking
Stores thread colours?Yes
Editable outlines?No: it is a stitch file (resizing a lot can spoil it)
Machines in our guide that read it5

About .SHV files

SHV is another Husqvarna Viking file. mySewnet lists .hus and .shv together under Husqvarna and can load and export both. Embrilliance Essentials also reads and writes SHV. Ink/Stitch can read it but not write it.

EduTechWiki describes what is inside: stitches, colors stored as numbers from a built-in table, and a large 1-bit preview picture that varies in size.

The sources we found do not say which Viking models read SHV or when it was used. The National Archives' format registry says Husqvarna's later files were VIP, then VP3 and VP4, so current machines use VP3. Check the manual for an older machine before you buy designs in SHV.

How to convert .SHV files

  • Use SHV only when your Husqvarna Viking manual lists it. For newer machines take VP3.
  • Embrilliance Essentials and mySewnet can write SHV. Ink/Stitch can open it but not save it.
  • Export from your original editable file, not from another machine format.
  • Check the colors on the machine screen after you convert.

Machines that read .SHV files

Singer

Husqvarna Viking

Pfaff

Frequently asked questions

What is an SHV file?

It is a Husqvarna Viking embroidery stitch file. EduTechWiki says it holds stitches, colors and a large 1-bit picture.

What is the difference between SHV and HUS?

mySewnet lists both under Husqvarna. HUS packs its stitch data with a proprietary compression scheme. The sources do not explain why Husqvarna had both, so check your manual for the one your machine reads.

Which software can open SHV files?

mySewnet and Embrilliance Essentials can read and write SHV. Ink/Stitch can read it but not write it.

Does SHV keep thread colors?

Yes. It stores colors as numbers from a built-in table. Check the preview after converting.

Other formats

Sources