>Hi Viv, the helper class I use has a static c'tor which adds the font to the pfc, what really puzzles me is why it works on the second running ? and why is the font file showing in the Windows\Font directory ? .

I'm afraid I've no idea why it is added to the system fonts. But if it is then maybe the MDIForm is getting it from there on the second launch?

> Sorry wasn't very clear when I say defaults to, I think if you try to create a font that isn't installed , instead of just bombing, Windows/.NET returns MS San Serif - which is what is happening here.

I'm still not clear on whether you are *sure* that the loading of the font is complete before the MDIForm is instantiated.....
Where do you set the Font property for the MDI form ?