Identify the legacy meaning
W3C’s SVG 2 changes appendix states that the SVG Fonts feature and its font, glyph, missing-glyph and related elements were removed from SVG 2. Treat an older example using those elements as legacy font-definition syntax rather than a generic recipe for current web-font delivery.
Distinguish the modern OpenType SVG table
Microsoft’s OpenType specification defines an optional SVG table containing descriptions for some or all glyphs in a font. These can use color vector graphics and can combine vector and raster artwork. The table can accompany TrueType, CFF or CFF2 outlines; each SVG glyph description must have a corresponding outline description. This is a different mechanism from the removed SVG font and glyph elements. The OpenType format restricts SVG capabilities rather than supporting every feature of a general SVG document.
For an independently documented illustrated-lettering example, read Handmadefont’s Brain project guide. It explains a creator’s color-font versus separate-PNG workflow; this site does not serve that project’s font files. When handing over a composition, specify whether the recipient needs the actual color font, editable source text or finished artwork, and check support in the intended application.
Keep artwork and fonts distinct
A vector drawing of a word is artwork. A reusable font resource maps characters to glyphs and supports a text workflow. The .svg extension alone does not tell you that the file is a complete installable font or that its lettering remains editable as ordinary text.
Choose text delivery deliberately
The same W3C changes appendix adds a WOFF support requirement to the text chapter. For ordinary web-font integration, use the HTML and CSS font guide and identify the actual family resource rather than adapting a legacy font element without considering its purpose.
Record the intended handoff
State whether the recipient needs editable text, vector artwork or a font file. Keep the source text and family information with an exported graphic if future wording changes are expected. For file-format distinctions, continue with font file types.
Your questions, answered.
Does removing SVG font elements mean OpenType-SVG color fonts were removed too?
No. The removed SVG font-definition elements and the SVG table inside an OpenType font are different mechanisms. Identify the format before applying a legacy SVG statement to a modern color-font file.
Does an SVG image of lettering automatically install as a font?
No. Vector artwork and a reusable font resource are different kinds of deliverable.
Sources & background
Sources supporting this page’s explanations. Practical examples are our editorial suggestions.