Book Image

Inkscape Beginner's Guide

By : Bethany Hiitola
Book Image

Inkscape Beginner's Guide

By: Bethany Hiitola

Overview of this book

Learning to use Inkscape, an exciting open-source vector graphics program, broadens your software toolkit as a graphic designer. Using practical, real-world examples, you'll learn everything about the software and its capabilities so you'll be able to design anything from logos to websites.Inkscape Beginner's Guide is a practical step-by-step guide for learning this exciting vector graphics software. Not only will it take you through each menu item and toolbar, but you will also learn about creating complex shapes, text styling, filters, working with images, extensions, and the XML editoróall using real world examples.The book starts with an overview of vector graphics and how best to use them when designing for digital and print mediums. Then we install Inkscape and start learning all the ins and outs of the software. You'll build your first vector graphic while learning best practices for using layers, and build simple and complex objects with shapes and paths that will ultimately become exciting graphics to be used in your designs. Beyond designing sample logos and brochures while learning the software, you'll also learn how to use filters, install and use extensions, and the ins-and-outs of SVG and the XML Editor in Inkscape.
Table of Contents (18 chapters)
14
B. Keyboard Shortcuts
15
C. Glossary of Terms
17
Index

Working with paths

As stated previously, vector graphics themselves are made up of paths. Paths can be used to create unique text styling when tracing other images like photographs, and when building icons, buttons, and logos. By adding and manipulating nodes, you can transform simple paths into elaborate illustrations.

The most common tool used to create paths in Inkscape is the Bezier tool and this is what will be used in most of the examples seen throughout this chapter. You can also use the Pencil (Freehand) and Calligraphy tools to create paths. All of these tools are found in the toolbox.

Before we get started, here are some key items to remember when using the Bezier tool when creating paths:

  • To start creating a path with the Bezier tool, click each spot you want a node to appear in
  • A single click creates a straight line and a sharp node creates a "corner"
  • To create a smooth node or a curve--click, hold and drag your cursor to create the curved/smooth node
  • Double-click to finish...