Which format
The JEF. Its header carries the hoop the design was made for: the machine refuses a design meant for a larger hoop than it knows. Choose the hoop actually mounted in the studio. Colours are matched to the Janome palette (78 threads) in stitch order. MB-4 and MB-7 multi-needle machines also read JEF+ and DST.
Transferring the file
- USB stick: FAT32, with an “EMB” then “Embf” folder at the root on most Memory Craft; Skyline and 9850 also read the root.
- USB cable: MC500E and MC550E accept a direct link with the computer through Janome Embroidery Editor; the exported JEF imports there.
Hoops and sizes
| Machine | Largest hoop | Sewing field |
|---|---|---|
| MC230E, 350E | SQ14b | 140 × 140 mm |
| Memory Craft 9850, Skyline S9 | RE20b | 170 × 200 mm |
| MC500E | RE28b | 200 × 280 mm |
| MC550E | RE36b | 200 × 360 mm |
| MB-7 | Standard | 200 × 300 mm |
Recommended settings
- Density: 0.35 to 0.4 mm.
- Trims: MC500E and 550E trim automatically; enable “trim beyond 12 mm” in the embroidery settings.
- Colours: on MB-7, 7 needles; the studio warns beyond 7 colours.
Models
Memory Craft 230E, 350E, 400E, 450E, 500E, 550E, 9850, 9900, 12000, 14000, 15000; Skyline S9; Continental M17; MB-4, MB-4S, MB-7; Elna eXpressive 830, 830L, 850, 860, 920.
Frequently asked questions
“Design too large for the hoop”
The JEF carries a hoop code. Choose in the studio exactly the mounted hoop (e.g. RE20b), not a larger one.
Does Elna read JEF?
Yes, Elna eXpressive machines are Janome machines under another brand.
Go further
The studio is free to draw, open and check designs. Your first machine file takes five minutes.
Updated 2026-09-24.