In my previous blog, I explained how I converted my handwritten characters into a TrueType font using Python and FontForge. After generating the font file, I expected the process to be complete.

The script executed successfully, the .ttf file was created, and Windows installed the font without any errors. Everything appeared to be working as expected.

However, when I opened Microsoft Word to test the font, it was nowhere to be found.

This was an unexpected result. Since the font had been generated and installed successfully, I initially assumed the issue was related to Microsoft Word or the Windows font cache. After several attempts, including restarting applications and reinstalling the font, it became clear that the problem originated from the font generation process itself.

Reviewing the Font Generation Script

The script was designed to read handwritten character images, create glyphs for each character, and generate a TrueType font.

For each character, the script:

Created a glyph using its Unicode value.

Loaded the corresponding handwritten image.

Converted the image into vector outlines.

Applied glyph cleanup operations.

Assigned character spacing.

Added the glyph to the font.

Once all characters were processed, the font was validated and exported as a .ttf file.

While the workflow seemed straightforward, I learned that generating a font file is only one part of the process. The generated font must also contain valid glyph data and proper metadata to be recognized consistently by different applications.

Improvements Made

To improve the quality and compatibility of the generated font, I made several changes to the script.

Converting Images to Vector Outlines

Handwritten characters were stored as PNG images. Before they could be used in a font, they needed to be converted into vector outlines.

Using FontForge's tracing functionality ensured that each character contained scalable vector data rather than simple bitmap information.

Cleaning Glyph Data

After tracing, I applied additional cleanup operations to simplify paths and correct outline directions.

These steps helped create cleaner glyphs and reduced the likelihood of rendering issues.

Defining Character Width

Character spacing plays an important role in readability.

By assigning a width value to each glyph, I ensured that letters would display with consistent spacing when typed.

Adding Font Metadata

I also defined the font's family name, font name, and full name.

Proper metadata helps operating systems and applications identify and register fonts correctly.

Validating Before Export

Before generating the final font file, I included a validation step.

This allowed FontForge to check for common issues and helped ensure the generated font met basic requirements.

Next Blog:

This project started with English characters, but my next goal is much bigger—creating a Tamil handwriting font. I'm looking forward to exploring the unique challenges that come with Tamil script development and sharing what I learn along the way.