Paths

Vector graphics are made up of what are called geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and shapes. These primitives then have a start and end point, curves, angles, and points that are calculated with a mathematical equation. These paths are not limited to being straight—they can be of any shape, size, and even encompass any number of curves. When you combine them, they create drawings, diagrams, and can even help create certain fonts.

Inkscape uses both paths and a series of pre-determined shapes when creating graphics. Paths have no predefined lengths or widths. They are arbitrary in nature and come in three basic types:

• Open paths (have two ends)
• Closed paths (have no ends, like a circle)
• Compound paths (use a combination of two or more open and/or closed paths)
  

In Inkscape, there are a few ways we can make paths such as with the Pencil (Freehand), Bezier (Pen) , and Calligraphy tools—all of which are found in the toolbox located at the left side of your...