Interface Overview

In this article, I will explain how the editor interface works.

While standard font editors use traditional workflows with separate tabs and dedicated preview panels, Typlr introduces a completely new approach.

The interface feels like Figma or other modern graphic design tools.

The entire workspace is a document canvas that can contain text blocks, images, and individual paths as draft shapes.

The canvas is overlaid with controls and floating panels.

In the top-left corner, you will find navigation buttons, the font name label, and master layer switching controls.

You can quickly access the main page and fonts page using these buttons.

For variable fonts, master layers can be switched by clicking the buttons named after each master. You can also switch between them using Ctrl or Cmd + 1, 2, 3, and so on, depending on the number of master layers.

In the top center is the toolbar, where you can switch between tools. Every tool has its own keyboard shortcut for faster access.

The most frequently used tool is the Move Tool. As you might expect, it lets you select, move, and transform elements.

The Pen Tool is used to create new vector paths.

The Text Tool creates new text blocks and activates text editing mode for typing.

The Rectangle and Circle Tools create basic geometric shapes.

The Hand Tool is mostly used via keyboard shortcuts. You can temporarily switch to panning mode by pressing and holding the Spacebar. Combined with the Ctrl or Cmd key, you can easily zoom in or out.

The Measurement Tool activates a special mode used to measure individual lines and distances.

In the top-right corner are the export options. You can export your design into OpenType, TrueType, and UFO font formats. For variable fonts, additional buttons allow you to export variable instances.

In the bottom-left corner, you will find panel toggle buttons. Each panel has its own keyboard shortcut. Let's explore them:

• Glyphs Panel: Contains all the glyphs in your project. Here you can add new glyphs or entire character sets.

• Document Tree: Displays the structure of your document.

• Properties Panel: Allows you to modify selected elements.

• Kerning Panel: Used to manually add, edit, or remove kerning pairs.

• Font Settings: Contains font information fields, axes, master settings, and instances.

• Application Panel: Provides general settings and color theme options.