fonttosfnt
bitmap font to SFNT converter
TLDR
Convert BDF to sfnt
$ fonttosfnt -o [output.ttf] [input.bdf]
Convert PCF font$ fonttosfnt -o [output.otb] [input.pcf]
Verbose output$ fonttosfnt -v -o [output.ttf] [input.bdf]
Process multiple fonts$ fonttosfnt -o [output.ttf] [font1.bdf] [font2.bdf]
SYNOPSIS
fonttosfnt [options] input-files...
DESCRIPTION
fonttosfnt converts bitmap fonts (BDF, PCF) to SFNT format (TrueType/OpenType with bitmap data). It preserves bitmap glyphs while providing modern font file format.The tool embeds bitmap strikes in SFNT wrappers, enabling use of legacy bitmap fonts in systems expecting modern font formats. Multiple input fonts can be merged.fonttosfnt bridges classic X11 bitmap fonts with contemporary font infrastructure.
PARAMETERS
INPUT-FILES
BDF or PCF font files.-o FILE
Output file name.-v
Verbose output.-g N
Gamma correction value.-m
Merge glyphs into single font.--help
Display help information.
INSTALL
sudo apt install xfonts-utils
sudo dnf install fonttosfnt
sudo zypper install fonttosfnt
nix profile install nixpkgs#fonttosfnt
CAVEATS
Output remains bitmap, not vector. Limited font metadata support. Best for specific sizes.
HISTORY
fonttosfnt is part of the X.Org font utilities, providing conversion between traditional X11 bitmap formats and modern SFNT containers for compatibility with newer systems.