Inkscape

How to specify a line in Inkscape by angle and distance

Asked by steve2267

Is there a way to draw or specify a line in Inkscape by angle and distance?

Even better if the angle can be relative to the previous path? That is, where a polyline is being drawn, the next line segment could be specified by an angle relative to the previous line segment and the distance relative to the endpoint of the previous line segment?

Question information

Language:
English Edit question
Status:
Answered
For:
Inkscape Edit question
Assignee:
No assignee Edit question
Last query:
Last reply:
Revision history for this message
Hachmann (marenhachmann) said : 		#1

Hi Steve,

no, as Inkscape is not a CAD program, this isn't supported directly.

There are a few workarounds, though:

- You can use the 'transform' dialog (Object -> Transform) to enter rotation angles and to specify a width or height (will only work for strictly horizontal / vertical lines).
- You can use snapping to get specific distances, with a grid or with guidelines.
- You can use snapping to get specific angles, with a grid or with guidelines (double-click on a guideline to enter the angle numerically).
- You can enter the node position directly via the XML editor.
- Angles can also be created using circle segments. For these, an angle can be entered directly.

- While you are drawing with the Bézier tool, the angle in relation to the last segment is displayed in the status bar. Also the length of the current segment. These measurements aren't very exact, though.

- There is the Measurement tool, which allows you to check your angles and distances.

Kind regards,
 Maren

Can you help with this problem?

Provide an answer of your own, or ask steve2267 for more information if necessary.

To post a message you must log in.