In the first days of this blog's existence, I introduced you MyScriptFont which allowed you to scan your handwriting to make a font. But over time, this tool gave way to Calligraphr which does in some ways the same thing!
Write all the letters of the alphabet on a sheet of paper, scan it, let Calligraphr churn it all out! And hey presto, you get a font with your handwriting!
Calligraphr has a free version with limited features and a paid version that allows you to go further… However, the free version is enough to have fun !
Create a Font with Calligraphr
The first thing to do, even in the free version, is to create a user account.
Once this step is completed, you will finally be able to start. The site guides you step by step and you should not be lost.
The first thing to do is then to choose the reference of your font, that is to say, the language of your font. Indeed, this will influence the characters that you will have to create. Not all languages need the same letters or accents. Please note that it is possible to combine several if you want to be able to use your font in different languages. However, the free version is limited to 75 characters.
Then click on “Download the template” to generate a PDF or PNG file that you will have to fill out!
Indeed, it's up to you to work. Print the template and write all the characters requested to be able to create your font. Use a felt-tip pen rather than a ballpoint pen for a better result!
Once you have completed the sheet and are satisfied with the result, scan it and save it on your computer. Then, click on "MY FONTS", then on "New font". You will be able to adjust some settings (spacing, font size, etc.) and finally load the template that you have completed.
At this point, if you wish, you will be able to load other characters or even include a set of variants for each letter!
The next step allows you to sort through your letters and check that you like all the results. This is also an opportunity in the free version to clean up to have only 75 characters! Then click on "Build font" so that the tool generates your font file.
Once the file is generated, you will be able to test your font and download it in ttf and otf format.
Of course, the free version of Calligraphr is a little limited, but it still allows you to create your own font... and that, frankly, looks great!
Article updated on January 5, 2025 by Byothe
