Inkscape

I am a novice that needs elementary instructions on using basic options

Asked by Big Ted

I was trying to understand the user manual for Inkscape. Apparently, it was written by mathematicians or engineers. Is there an "Inkscape for Dummies" I can read that teaches the ABC's to a novice. I figured out how to write text and have already created a design using ad copy for a current job. However, there are so many variables by using certain keys, and F#'s that I cannot figure out how to do simple things, like to draw a line (without having that stupid curve thingy attached). It seems like it will take forever to teach myself.

I do not use Corel, or any other graphics software. Is there somewhere I can go to read "HOW TO DRAW A LINE", "MAKE GEOMETRIC SHAPES", by the numbers, step 1, step 2, etc.? and other options available to me. The user manual is a waste. Have you ever used Publisher? It is so easy. Sure it only offers basics but once I learn that in Inkscape I can go on to the more complicated. Maybe Inkscape would be as easy if I had some basic instructions. I am a copywriter and illustrator, and have even created user manuals for Texas Instruments (in the early eighties). I learned that computer engineers need a lot of help thinking and writing basic instructions to novices. That's what I am looking for Inkscape. I don't even know how to phrase what I want at Inkscape.com. The FAQ's don't seem to help either. Even the terminology used is foreign to me. (paths, nodes, etc.)

I also am having problems with Inkscape "having to close" or freezing up whereby I cannot even close it out without restarting or rebooting.

Question information

Language:
English Edit question
Status:
Solved
For:
Inkscape Edit question
Assignee:
No assignee Edit question
Solved by:
Krzysztof Kosinski
Solved:
Last query:
Last reply:
Revision history for this message
Best Krzysztof Kosinski (tweenk) said : 		#1

It would help if you said what OS you are using, this would give some clue on "having to close" problems.

Draw a straight line from A to B: Select the Pen tool (Shift+F6). Click once and release the left mouse button at point A. Move the mouse to point B. Click and release. Do this many times to create a polygon. Click the right mouse button to end. If you drag the mouse while keeping the left button pressed, you will get a smooth corner in that place. To edit a line you have created, use the Node tool. You can tweak its look in the Object->Fill and Stroke menu.

Geometric shapes: Circle, rectangle etc. work very similar to MS Paint. However, once you draw them, you can drag the white square or round handles to alter the shape.

I haven't used Publisher, though I suspect its drawing facilities are somewhat similar to MS Word. The main difference in Inkscape is that you create lines by single-clicking on their endpoints (nodes) instead of dragging. Dragging is used to create curved lines.

It seems that the basic tutorial is a bit lacking in such basic information (especially concerning the terminology used in the program). Probably you should file this as a feature request.

Revision history for this message
Big Ted (creatabaida) said : 		#2

Chris, Thanks again for your input. It's nice to have helpful people online. How do you file this as a feature request? I wish I was the tech/copy writer for this site. I would make it so much easier. But I'm still a novice on how to use everything. Though I really only need basics to do my business. I have been reading the tutorial and clicking on everything to see what it does. The tutorial leaves A LOT to be desired. The terminology is way too much and too confusing.

I'm using Windows. I think I figured out the straight line before your reply but I still think that curvy tail that follows is very confusing. I need to get in the habit of lifting my finger after clicking. I am also trying to figure out the fill and stroke and how to use that. Too bad the creators of Inkscape didn't start knowing Publisher. It is so much simpler. Publisher is better and does more than Word.

How does one remove the outline of the polygons, squares and circles? Or do you simply make the stroke the same color as the fill?

What is the difference between Inkscape Forum and this site? It seems like I need a different login. Thanks again. I'll keep clicking away.

Big Ted

Revision history for this message
joel (vzerj481-aol) said : 		#3

I need help in drawer in a circle and a border, I need directions, I also would like to know how to import symbols. thank you Joel

Revision history for this message
Andrew Davidson (andrewdavidson) said : 		#4

Yes, I have been using Publisher since I started my job as an editor. I edit books for kids so I just have to use Instruments in copywriting and illustrating at PowerKids Press.
 Check my portfolio at https://issuu.com/rosenpublishing/docs/pk_full_2019_catalog_low_issuu_ https://www.essay-have.com/