How to Make a Font in GIMP

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You can use the graphic design program GIMP to make your own custom fonts. GIMP houses Alpha to Logo filters, which makes it easy for you to produce polished-looking word art and text designs. You can create a whole alphabet this way to be used throughout various projects, or you can create finished words on an as-needed basis. GIMP lets you tailor each logo filter to feature the colors, design and size you want your font to have.

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Step 1

Launch GIMP, and begin a font file by clicking on "File" and "Create." Follow the right-arrow to "Logos," hovering your cursor over the text in order to view the twenty-plus font functions to choose from. Click on an entry that sounds promising to give that particular foundation a try. For example, start with "Chrome" or "Neon."

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Step 2

Follow the prompts in the "Script-Fu" pop-up box, inserting your desired text and completing the rest of that particular filter's options: background color, foreground color, pattern, size, drop shadow or so on. You will also be prompted to choose a computer font to give your logo a foundation to work from.

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Step 3

Click on "OK" when you have inputted your desired settings. The "Script-Fu" box will close, and a workbook will appear housing your text creation. Many of the filters will produce a multi-layer workbook with a solid background.

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Step 4

Delete the solid background, if desired, by clicking on the corresponding thumbnail in the "Layers" menu, and pressing the "Delete" key on your keyboard. A gray-checkerboard background will now be visible, signaling that the workbook is semi-transparent.

Step 5

Save your font file using a picture file extension that will support transparency such as ".png."

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