What this book covers
Chapter 1, Getting Started with Vector Graphics, starts before Inkscape, at the beginning of vector graphics. We begin by defining vector graphics and how they are used online and within print projects. Then we start digging into Inkcape learning about how the program began and how it fits in the world of vector graphics today.
Chapter 2, Installing and Opening Inkscape, discusses where to download Inkscape 0.48, the most recent version of the software and its unique features, as well as detailed descriptions about how to install the software. Included in this are screen captures that define the main areas of the program and menu items—all of which is very helpful when opening the software for the first time.
Chapter 3, How to Manage Files, is all about files and managing them. Inkscape can import a number of file formats and then edit them. Then, after completing a project Inkscape has the ability to save and export graphics in a number of formats. We will discuss all of these options as well as the native Inkscape SVG format and the benefits of using project folders.
Chapter 4, Creating your First Graphics, starts by defining paths and shapes, a basis for all projects going forward in Inkscape. Then it focuses on creating your very first Inkscape object—a star. Also discussed in this chapter are ellipses, complex shapes, freehand object, grids, and guidelines.
Chapter 5, How to Work with Layers, is all about layers in Inkscape. You will learn the basics like how to create new layers, delete, arrange, and blend layers, as well as hiding and duplicating layers, all the while working on a sample blog header project.
Chapter 6, Building Objects, helps you learn about objects and how Inkscape interprets them, how to change object features, change fill and stroke, grouping objects, combining objects, and how to best use the masking and clipping features.
Chapter 7, Using Paths focuses, on using paths. Again we start with the basics: defining paths, how to work with them in Inkscape, transforming, combining, and placing paths. The bulk of this chapter will focus on an illustration project that will assist you in learning all you need to know about paths.
Chapter 8, How to Style Text, teaches how you can manipulate and style text for any design. It is a practical chapter that covers using paths and text to create visual appeal, text and frames, the basics like spellcheck and find/replace, text effects, and a simple project to show how to create a text reflection.
Chapter 9, Using Filters, focuses on using filters with text and images to give a further dimension to your vector graphics. Projects will focus on using images and text—including a detailed example with step-by-step instructions on using filters with text.
Chapter 10, Extensions in Inkscape, is as expected, about extensions or templates and plugins that can assist in the design process for vector graphics. You will learn how to install templates, extensions, and about the availability of certain extension or scripts that might be useful.
Chapter 11, Working with Images, is all about importing photographs or images into Inkscape and manipulating them. Specifically, you will be working on a few sample projects that deal with photographs and filters.
Chapter 12, Using the XML Editor, teaches you about the XML editor that is included within Inkscape. It covers the basic XML structure tree, as well as how you can manipulate this code to change objects in your projects.
Appendix A, Where to Find More Information, provides web links to people and places that can help you learn even more about Inkscape.
Appendix B, Keyboard Shortcuts, mentions the basic keyboard shortcuts for Inkscape 0.48.
Appendix C, Glossary of Terms, is a glossary of Inkscape and basic design terms used throughout the book.