{"id":53963,"date":"2018-07-09T07:00:28","date_gmt":"2018-07-09T14:00:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ponoko.com\/blog\/?p=53963"},"modified":"2020-08-27T00:49:58","modified_gmt":"2020-08-27T07:49:58","slug":"inkscape-vector-tutorials","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ponoko.com\/blog\/how-to-make\/inkscape-vector-tutorials\/","title":{"rendered":"Design Made Easy With Inkscape Vector Tutorials"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Inkscape<\/p>\n

How To Use Inkscape Like A Pro
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Want to design products but don\u2019t have the budget for expensive software? Or do you simply like the ethos and flexibility of open source software? Inkscape, a professional vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux, is a great tool you can use to design products for any number of applications, including laser cutting<\/a>. And the best part? It\u2019s open source\u2014and FREE.<\/p>\n

When designing products<\/a>, vector graphics are critical because they maintain quality when saved and scaled. Additionally, software that creates vector paths can export both visual artwork and files to be machined. This kind of multitasking is awesome!<\/p>\n

While Inkscape is a good alternative to paid programs such as Adobe Illustrator<\/a>, it may require a bit more time to learn than its counterpart. To help you feel comfortable understanding Inkscape basics, we\u2019ve created this guide to walk you through how to use Inkscape for design projects.<\/p>\n

To get started, download Inkscape here<\/a> so you can click along throughout all the vector tutorials. Let\u2019s get started\u2014and have some fun!<\/p>\n

Raster (Bitmap) Images Vs Vector Graphics<\/h2>\n

To approach projects most efficiently, it\u2019s important to understand the types of files that different softwares make. Raster (bitmap) images are comprised of many dots called pixels that are unable to scale because they distort when made larger. On the other hand, vector graphics are a calculation of points with lines connecting the points. This gives vector images the ability to scale to any size without losing clarity (resolution). And the lines can be followed by machines, such as laser cutters, that need coordinates to operate.<\/p>\n

\"Custom<\/a><\/p>\n

Vector files should be the base files for any image you create. And if you need raster images later (usually for web purposes), you can always export one from the master vector file.<\/p>\n

However, it\u2019s not possible to save a vector design from a raster image. Why? If a JPEG is resaved as an SVG, it will not have any vector information embedded in the design.<\/p>\n

But what if the only artwork you have is JPEG and you need vector art? Don\u2019t worry. There are ways to make and convert images to vector paths. Keep reading!<\/p>\n

Converting JPG To Vector Images (Tracing Bitmaps)<\/h2>\n

Need to vectorize an image? You will if laser cutting your designs. Drawing these designs using graphics software tools will get the cleanest results. For brands or businesses including graphics or logos in designs, these files should be created in a vector form (i.e. the master design file).<\/p>\n

To see what vector paths are present in an Inscape file, view the design in outline mode. You\u2019ll see all the vector paths in black outlines and any bitmaps (JPGS) as blank squares.<\/p>\n

\"Inkscape<\/p>\n

If you have a raster\/bitmap image, such as a JPEG, Inkscape has a helpful \u201cTrace Bitmap\u201d tool that automatically converts it to vectors. Start by selecting the inserted image and using the \u201cPath > Trace Bitmap\u201d window. There are several tracing options, so try out a few until you find the one you want.<\/p>\n

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You can also see how to use this tracing tool (works best for simple forms) on the Inkscape website. Keep in mind that larger images produce better results, as there is more information available to convert. Learn how to use it with this video (trace is about 5mins in):<\/p>\n