I have some fonts (open source but... no sources files just binaries). I plan to make changes to a font's outlines but keep all the features and tables (except the names). What's the most reliable way to do this?
If you make a change to the glyph index order then the existing OT binary tables will probably no longer work.
If you are just modifying existing glyphs it may be possible to re-use the GPOS, GSUB and GDEF tables from the original font. I think I read here that the latest version of OTMaster can copy and paste tables but I'm not sure, you will need to check that.
DTL OTMaster allows you to work on the outlines without decompiling the font. It contains a fully featured glyph editor. The altered glyph(s) can be autohinted within OTM. The program is not for free nor open source though.
Malcolm Wooden I use Glyphs app, I plan to edit outlines with GA, generate binaries, ttx it and then reapply original tables. I'll get back with results.
Make sure Glyphs > Preferences > Keep Names from Imported Files is on, and when you open a file, Glyphs will insert a glyphOrder parameter, which determines the glyph order in the exported file. Both are documented in the handbook for Glyphs 1, and there is a tutorial about glyph order, too.
Comments
If you are just modifying existing glyphs it may be possible to re-use the GPOS, GSUB and GDEF tables from the original font. I think I read here that the latest version of OTMaster can copy and paste tables but I'm not sure, you will need to check that.
Sorry @LeMo aka Frank E Blokland I don't intend to license it just for this task!
Glyphs is likely to re-order the glyph index order, so this approach won't work.
Often the sources are available from obscure locations. Wei, did you ask the original designers for sources?
Where are these options documented?