Can you share your process for custom font creation, from initial concept to final digital implementation, and the tools you use for it?

Creating a custom font is an intricate process involving creativity, technical skills, and specialized tools. Here's a step-by-step overview:

1. Concept Development

Define Purpose: Understand the font's intended use (branding, editorial, digital interfaces).

Research and Inspiration: Analyze existing fonts, calligraphy, or cultural motifs to draw inspiration.

Sketch Ideas: Hand-draw letters or use a digital drawing tablet to experiment with styles, weights, and features.

2. Character Set Planning

Choose Characters: Decide on the glyph set (basic Latin, extended Latin, symbols, or multilingual scripts).

Define Features: Plan stylistic alternates, ligatures, and OpenType features for versatility.

3. Digital Design

Vectorizing Sketches:

Use software like Adobe Illustrator or Procreate to create vector outlines of each character.

Font Creation Software: Import vectors into specialized tools such as:

FontForge (free)

Glyphs (Mac)

RoboFont

FontLab

4. Refinement

Kerning and Spacing: Adjust letter spacing and pairings for balanced typography.

Consistency Checks: Ensure shapes, curves, and weights are harmonious across characters.

Test in Context: Use sample text in mockups to evaluate the font’s appearance in real-world scenarios.

5. Export and Testing

Generate Font Files: Export in standard formats like OTF (OpenType Font) or TTF (TrueType Font).

Test on Platforms: Install and test the font across devices and applications to ensure compatibility.

6. Final Touches

Documentation: Provide details on the font’s usage, features, and licensing.

Feedback Loop: Share with users or clients for feedback and make adjustments as needed.

Tools Used

Font Editing: Glyphs, FontLab, or FontForge.

Vector Design: Adobe Illustrator, Affinity Designer.

Prototyping: Figma for digital mockups.