Convert PNG to OTF

About PNG images and OTF fonts

PNG image file format

PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a popular image format known for its lossless compression, meaning it preserves image quality regardless of how often the file is opened or saved. Its support for alpha channel transparency is particularly favored for web graphics, digital art, and pictures with transparent backgrounds.

OTF file format

OpenType (OTF) is a format developed by Microsoft and Adobe that extends the TrueType font standard. It supports a wide range of characters and languages and can include advanced typographic features. OpenType fonts are increasingly popular due to their versatility and comprehensive language support.

What is a png to otf conversion, then?

In most cases, users searching for ways to convert a png to otf are looking for a way to identify a particular font from a picture because they like how it looks and want to download it. In rare cases, some users want to create their own font set based on PNG images.

How do I identify a font based on an image?

Identifying a specific font from a PNG picture involves a few steps, often leveraging some technology and detective work. This process, of course, is not limited to just OTF fonts and works for any other font type as well. Here are a few examples of what you can do, but in all cases, first, ensure that the PNG image is clear and the text is legible. A higher-resolution image with unobstructed, horizontal text will yield more accurate results.

Use of online font recognition tools

There are several online tools and services available for font identification. Websites like WhatTheFont (by MyFonts), Font Squirrel's Matcherator, or Adobe Fonts allow you to upload the image and automatically analyze the text to suggest possible font matches. These tools compare the shapes in your image to their font database and suggest similar fonts.

Software and apps

Some software and mobile apps can also assist in font identification. Apps like WhatTheFont Mobile, Fonts Ninja, FontScanner, and others use your phone's camera to identify fonts on printed material or screens.

For desktop-based solutions, Adobe Capture CC is one of the most useful tools, but many font managers offer a font recognition function or have their own app for this, like FontBase.

Manual identification

You can try manual identification if automated tools don't yield satisfactory results. This involves examining key font characteristics in your image, such as the shape of specific letters (like g, a and e), serifs, the thickness of the strokes, and any unique design features. Compare these characteristics to fonts using a font catalog or a website with a large font collection.

Consulting online communities

If you're still unable to identify the font, you can ask for help on design forums or communities. Platforms like Reddit's r/identifythisfont or specialized design forums have experienced users who can often recognize or suggest similar fonts.

How do I make OTF fonts from PNG images?

Creating an OpenType Font (OTF) from a PNG picture is a lengthy process that takes several steps, usually requiring graphic design and font-creation software. Making a new font requires attention to detail, especially if it's meant for professional or widespread use. The legibility and aesthetics of each character, consistency in design, and technical compatibility are crucial aspects of successful font design.

The process typically includes converting the image into a vector format, mapping characters, and generating the font file. It goes without saying that this work is not for amateurs, and if you are a new font artist, the process might feel intimidating. Here's a basic overview of the workflow process:

First, prepare your source PNG picture

Start with a high-quality PNG image. If your PNG represents individual characters (like letters or symbols), ensure each character is clearly defined. For a complete font, you'll need separate images for each character.

Convert PNG to vector graphics

Since OTF is a scalable font format, you must convert your PNG graphics into vector graphics. This can be done using vector graphic software like Adobe Illustrator. Import your PNG and use Image Trace or a similar tool to convert it into a vector graphic. Ensure that the conversion retains the essential details of your characters.

Edit and refine the vector graphics

After the conversion is finished, refine each character to ensure clarity and consistency. This might involve cleaning up edges, adjusting sizes, or modifying shapes. This should be doable with any vector graphics software, for example, Inkscape or Adobe Illustrator.

Font creation software

Use font creation software like FontForge, Glyphs, or Adobe Font Development Kit for OpenType (AFDKO). Import your vector graphics into the software. These tools allow you to assign each graphic to a corresponding character, adjust spacing, set kerning, and define other font metrics.

Export as OTF

Once all characters are mapped and adjusted, use the font creation software to compile and export your font in OpenType format. This file can then be installed on a computer or embedded in documents and applications.