FontForge

Software Overview

FontForge is a free app you can use to create, edit, and convert fonts. It supports many popular font formats and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The list of font formats that FontForge supports includes (but is not limited to):

• .TTF - TrueType Font
• .TTC - TrueType Font Collection
• .OTF - OpenType Font
• .UFO - Unified Font Object
• .DFONT - Mac OS X Data Fork Font
• .FNT - Windows Font File
• .WOFF - Web Open Font Format

After opening a font file in FontForge, you can use vector editing tools to customize each glyph the font contains. For example, you can edit a glyph outline using spiro points or create an accented glyph. You can also import new glyphs from .SVG files (created using vector editors such as Inkscape or Adobe Illustrator) and (if you're an advanced user) use FontForge's scripting engine to automate repetitive tasks.

By default, FontForge saves the fonts you create in its native Spline Format Database (.SFD) format. However, you can also export fonts as TTF, OTF, SVG, UFO, WOFF, .PFA, or .PFB files.

Summary

If you're able to overcome FontForge's steep learning curve, you'll find a lot to love. The app supports most popular font formats and allows editors to create and edit glyphs with both basic and advanced tools. While some paid font editors are easier to use, FontForge is likely the best free font editor on the market.

Primary File Type

.SFDSpline Font Database

Supported File Types