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

Chapter 2. Installing and Opening Inkscape

To start using Inkscape, you must install it first! This chapter starts by explaining where to download Inkscape from, the most recent version and its features, as well as detailed descriptions about how to install the software. It also includes a brief rundown of the application window and the main areas of where to find items when opening it for the first time.

In this chapter, we will learn:

  • Inkscape 0.48's features
  • Where to download Inkscape
  • How to install Inkscape (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Potential troubleshooting items when installing
  • Basics of the Inkscape software
  • Opening your first document

Let's get started and start downloading!