Create vector files with Inkscape

With the freeware Inkscape you can easily create vector files. You can then use these for printing projects, for example.

Create a vector file in Inkscape

Since a vector file consists only of vectors, you have to draw it yourself. To do this, use the free Inkscape program. You can also use the "Vectorize bitmap" function in the "Path" menu to try to vectorize an image consisting of pixels.

1. To draw a path, use the "Bezier" tool. You can find it on the left side of Inkscape.
2. Click on the starting point where you want to start your path. Click on a second point to draw a curve from your starting point. As long as you hold down the mouse button, you can shape the straight line into a curve. To do this, move the mouse in different directions.
3. This way, you can add as many nodes to your path as you like. When you are finished, press the right mouse button. Inkscape invisibly connects the last node to the starting point.
4. If you now click on one of the colors at the bottom of Inkscape, your newly drawn object will fill with the respective color.
5. You can use the "Object" menu to open the "Fill and Contour" window. Here you can set the width, fill and color, as well as the pattern of the path.
6. With the second tool from above, the "touch" tool, you can change the nodes of your path later.
7. In the "Path" menu you will find further functions to edit your vector graphic afterwards. You can also use geometric shapes in the toolbar on the left.
8. Finally, you have to save your vector graphic. The "File" menu takes you to the "Save" dialog. Select the format of a vector graphic as the format below, ie the default ".svg", Adobe's ".ai" or ".eps".

In another practical tip, we will show you how to design your own comics. You can find out how to do this in this guide.