FontForge is a powerful open-source font editor that allows users to create and modify font files. One of the important aspects of font design is the arrangement of glyphs in the font's glyph table. The display order of glyphs can affect how they are accessed and used, particularly in software that relies on these glyphs. This article will guide you through the steps to arrange glyph display order in FontForge.
Understanding Glyph Display Order
Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what glyph display order is. The glyph display order is how glyphs are organized in the font file, affecting their indexing and rendering. Proper arrangement can improve the usability of the font in design software, and it's critical for languages that have specific glyph requirements.
Steps to Arrange Glyph Display Order in FontForge
1. Open Your Font
First, launch FontForge and open the font file you want to modify. You can do this by selecting File > Open and navigating to your font file.
2. Access the Glyph Window
Once the font is open, you will see a grid of glyphs. If the glyph window isn't visible, go to Window > Glyph Window to bring it up. This grid shows all the glyphs in your font.
3. Selecting Glyphs
To change the display order, you need to select the glyphs you want to rearrange. You can select multiple glyphs by holding down the Shift or Ctrl key while clicking on them.
4. Rearranging Glyphs
With your glyphs selected, you can rearrange them by dragging and dropping them in the desired order. Alternatively, you can use the following options:
- Cut and Paste: Cut the selected glyphs using
Ctrl + Xand paste them (Ctrl + V) at your desired location. - Move: Use the Edit > Move option to shift glyphs one position at a time.
5. Renumbering Glyphs
Sometimes, rearranging glyphs may not automatically update their numbering. To renumber glyphs:
- Go to Element > Font Info.
- In the Encoding tab, you may find options to manually adjust the glyph indices or update the numbering.
6. Saving Your Changes
After you have arranged the glyphs in the order you desire, it is crucial to save your work. Go to File > Generate Fonts to export your modified font file. Make sure to choose the correct format (e.g., TrueType, OpenType) based on your needs.
7. Testing the New Arrangement
Once you save the new font file, it's a good idea to test it in various applications to ensure that the glyphs display correctly and in the desired order.
Conclusion
Arranging the glyph display order in FontForge is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance the usability of your font. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively manage how glyphs are displayed and accessed, making your font more efficient for users. Happy font designing!
