How to add fonts to Procreate on iPad (and use your own handwriting)
Procreate can import TTF, OTF and TTC fonts straight from the Files app. Here's how, plus a trick for using your own handwriting as a font.
Updated · 4 min read
Procreate's text tool can use any font you import — you don't need to install it system-wide on your iPad first. It supports .ttf, .otf and .ttc files. (Source: Procreate's help center, checked September 2026.)
1. Save the font to Files
Download the font on your iPad and save it to the Files app. If it came as a .zip, tap the zip in Files to extract it — Procreate needs the font file itself.
2. Import it in Procreate
- 1
Add text
Open your canvas, tap Actions (the wrench) → Add → Add text.
- 2
Open the text style
With the text selected, tap Edit Style to open the font panel.
- 3
Import the font
Tap Import font and choose the .ttf, .otf or .ttc file in Files. It's added to the font list immediately.
Procreate Dreams
Procreate Dreams supports the same formats. Add a text element, open Edit style and tap Import, or place the font files in Files → Procreate Dreams → Fonts.
Make a font from your own handwriting
Lettering artists often want their own hand as a font — for quick captions, planner stickers or consistent labels. With an iPad and Apple Pencil you can draw each letter in Dearfont right in Safari, download the TTF file, and import it into Procreate with the steps above. The whole round trip takes about 10 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Which font formats does Procreate support?
TTF, OTF and TTC. WOFF and WOFF2 are web formats — convert them with our free font converter first.
Where does Procreate store imported fonts?
In the Files app under On My iPad → Procreate → Fonts.
Do I need to install the font on my iPad first?
No. Importing it in Procreate is enough to use it there. To use a font in other apps as well, install it with a font app from the App Store and manage it in Settings → General → Fonts.
Calligraphr, FontCraft, FontCrafter, YourFonts, iFontMaker, Fontself, FontForge, Cricut, Canva, Procreate and other product names are trademarks of their respective owners. Dearfont is not affiliated with or endorsed by them. Prices and features were checked on each product's website on the date shown and may change.
Keep reading
- How to make a font from your handwriting (free, in about 10 minutes)A step-by-step guide to turning your own handwriting into an installable font — no design software, no font-editing experience needed.
- TTF vs OTF vs WOFF2: which font format should you use?The short answer: TTF or OTF for your computer and apps, WOFF2 for websites. Here's what the difference actually is — and when it matters.
- How to upload a custom font to Canva (including your own handwriting)Canva lets you upload your own fonts on its paid, education and nonprofit plans. Here's exactly how — and which file to use.