FontForge is a free, open-source font editor for Windows, macOS, and GNU+Linux that allows users to create, edit, and convert fonts in a wide range of formats.
What is FontForge?
FontForge is a free (libre) font editor that runs on Windows, Mac OS X, and GNU+Linux. It takes font files in various formats—including OpenType, TrueType, UFO, CID-keyed, and Multiple Master—as input and allows users to create, edit, and convert them. The project is maintained by a community of type enthusiasts and is available for download from its official website, which also offers a recommended starting point: Design With FontForge.
Key Features
- Cross-platform support — Works on Windows, macOS, and GNU+Linux, ensuring consistent functionality across operating systems.
- Multi-format compatibility — Supports OpenType, TrueType, UFO, CID-keyed, Multiple Master, and many other font formats for both import and export.
- Scripting capabilities — Includes a built-in scripting language (Python-based) for automating repetitive tasks and batch processing.
- Hinting and kerning tools — Offers manual and automatic hinting for screen rendering, as well as advanced kerning controls for adjusting letter spacing.
- Active community — A mailing list for users and a developer list for contributors provide support and collaboration.
- Free and open source — Licensed under open-source terms, with no cost to use, and an optional donation page to support the project.
Who is it for?
- Typeface designers — Who need a full-featured editor for creating original fonts from scratch or modifying existing ones.
- Graphic designers — Who require font conversion between formats (e.g., OpenType to TrueType) or want to add custom glyphs to typefaces.
- Developers and hobbyists — Who want to automate font workflows using scripting, or experiment with typography without licensing fees.
What can you do with FontForge?
- Create custom fonts: Design new glyphs using drawing tools and assign them to characters, then export as OTF or TTF files.
- Edit existing fonts: Modify individual glyphs, adjust metrics, and add kerning pairs to improve spacing in any supported format.
- Convert between formats: Import a font in one format (e.g., UFO) and export it to another (e.g., TrueType) while preserving outlines and metadata.
- Add hinting: Apply manual or automatic hints to ensure fonts render clearly on screen at small sizes.
Pricing
FontForge is completely free and open source. No payment is required to download or use it, but users can donate to support ongoing development.
FAQ
Is FontForge free?
Yes, FontForge is free and open source software. There are no hidden fees or premium tiers; you can download it from the official site and use it immediately.
What platforms does FontForge support?
FontForge runs on Windows, macOS, and GNU+Linux, with installers available for each platform on the downloads page.
What font formats does FontForge support?
It supports OpenType, TrueType, UFO, CID-keyed, Multiple Master, and many others, including both import and export capabilities.
How can I get help with FontForge?
You can ask questions on the mailing list or consult Design With FontForge, a comprehensive beginner’s guide.
