Getting Started with Inkscape

Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor that works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Download it at inkscape.org.

Key areas of the Inkscape window:

  • Canvas - the white rectangle in the centre is your drawing area.
  • Toolbox - the column of icons on the left. The most-used tools are the Selection tool (arrow), the Node editor, and the Bezier/Pen tool.
  • Fill and Stroke dialog - controls the colour inside a shape (fill) and the colour of its outline (stroke). Open it with Shift+Ctrl+F.
  • XML editor - shows the underlying SVG code. You will rarely need this at first.

Start by drawing a rectangle (press R) or a circle (press E) and experimenting with fill colours. Inkscape uses standard keyboard shortcuts: Ctrl+Z to undo, Ctrl+S to save, Ctrl+Shift+E to export.

Tip: Zoom in with Ctrl+scroll when placing nodes on curved paths. Precision at close range is easier than trying to work at full zoom.
Last modified: Thursday, 18 June 2026, 12:24 AM