Converting Monogram Fonts to Cut Files

I really like the papercut effect of the Monogram Daisy. However, in order to create an actual papercut monogram with my Brother ScanNCut, I would need to convert the font from OTF/TTF formats to a compatible format.

The FCM format is specifically for the ScanNCut. The SVG format will work with most electronic cutting machines including the ScanNCut.

Converting fonts for the Brother ScanNCut

Simply using the text tool in Canvas Workspace doesn’t always work. With more complicated or intricate designs the cut lines can end up crooked and jumbled and would absolutely not work as a cut file.

Monogram Daisy Font in Canvas Workspace using text tool

The easiest solution is to use the ScanNCut Type Converter – a free program that you can download from the Brother website for converting OpenType and TrueType fonts to FCM cut files.

Brother ScanNCut Type Converter overview

You can only type a single line of text into the converter and it all has to fit within the 30cm (12″) width of the mat, so you may have to either save the letters individually or in small groups depending on the size of the font. My preference is to save as many letters as possible in one go and then resize them in Canvas Workspace afterwards.

You can clearly see the difference between using the text tool directly in Canvas and using the Type Converter before importing the file into Canvas.

Monogram Daishy Font in Canvas Workspace using Type Converter

Bear in mind that some font designs are best suited for larger scales due to the intricacy of the design or areas with narrow lines and small apertures. Also, some font designs might not translate well to a cut file, for example, if the style is sketchy.

I am not familiar with Cricut Design Space or Silhouette Studio so I do not know how they deal with OTF/TTF format fonts but you can also create cut files from fonts by using a graphics program to convert the font to SVG format.