Draw freehand in Inkscape - Create creative paths

The Freehand tool of Inkscape opens the doors to intuitive drawing. Instead of laboriously placed nodes, you can creatively and smoothly create paths as if you were drawing with a pen on paper. In this tutorial, I will show you the many functions and possibilities that the Freehand tool offers, including practical tips for application. Let's get started right away.

Key Insights

• With the Freehand tool, you can quickly and intuitively draw creative paths.
• The smoothing function allows you to optimize the drawings according to your preferences.
• Various mode options like "Spiro Path" or "Bezier Path" offer you different drawing experiences and effects.
• You can convert drawn paths into normal paths and further customize them.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Selecting the Freehand Tool

To start drawing, select the Freehand tool. You can find it in the toolbar. Click on it to select. Now you are ready to create your first piece of art.

Step 2: Setting Mode to "Normal Bezier Path"

After selecting the tool, make sure the mode is set to "Normal Bezier Path." This setting gives you maximum control over the smoothing of your lines.

Step 3: Drawing an "S"

Now it's time to draw your first "S". Simply start drawing with your mouse. The smoothing level is currently set low, which can result in a jagged outcome.

Step 4: Increasing Smoothing

To improve the result, go back to the smoothing option and increase the value to 20. Draw your "S" again. You will notice that the lines become smoother and more beautiful.

Step 5: Experimenting with Different Smoothing Values

Try out different smoothing values to see what results you can achieve. Increase the value to 50 and redraw the same "S". Compare the result with the last drawn version. Sometimes higher smoothing can affect the style.

Step 6: Selecting Shapes

If you are satisfied with the results, switch to a shape like the ellipse. Make sure the Freehand tool mode remains active and redraw. Changing the shape can create interesting effects.

Step 7: Activating the Spiro Path Mode

Now switch to the Spiro Path mode. Here it is important to be particularly careful with the smoothing. Too much smoothing can make your drawing unreadable. Start with a value of 20 and draw another "S".

Step 8: Exaggerating the Smoothing

Notice how the appearance of your drawing changes when you increase the smoothing to 50. Draw another "S" and look at the result. Experiment with different values to understand how smoothing works.

Step 9: Switch to Bezier Path

Now is the perfect time to switch to the Bezier Path mode. Again, it is important to adjust the smoothing to achieve the best results. Make sure the lines are nicely rounded.

Step 10: Converting to a Normal Path

If you are happy with the drawn path and want to convert it to a normal path, activate the object and select the option "Convert to Normal Path." Now you can work directly on the anchor points and refine your drawing further.

Summary - Freehand Tool in Inkscape: Creative and Intuitive Drawing

The Freehand tool of Inkscape is a powerful tool that gives you the freedom to be creative. By experimenting with different smoothing values and drawing techniques, you can create truly impressive and unique designs. Use the different modes to optimize your drawings and then convert them to normal paths for even more control.