What it does
Use & Modify is Raphaël Bastide’s curated directory of libre and open-source typefaces. Browse by author, licence or visual traits such as bitmap, reverse contrast and ink traps, then follow a font to its original project. The collection is free to explore, and each font keeps its own licence.
A visual requirement can be the starting point here. The keyword index includes monospace, variable, pixel, reverse-contrast and inktraps, alongside author and licence filters. Each selected font offers an External link to its upstream project.
Use & Modify is a personal selection, updated from time to time. It is especially useful for finding less familiar typefaces with a particular construction, rather than comparing paid foundry packages.
The directory accepts fonts under libre or open-source licences, meaning reuse, modification and redistribution are permitted under their terms. Because several licences appear in the index, obtain the current files and read the included terms at the linked project before distributing a modified font.
Strengths
- Indexes fonts by author, license and visual keywords.
- Links to original projects.
Best for
- Finding unusual open type projects.
- Researching a specific visual construction.
Sources
- Use & Modify font directory (Oct 27, 2026)
- About Use & Modify (Oct 27, 2026)