What a path is

A path is a list of nodes joined by straight or curved segments, optionally closed. Every shape becomes one when you convert it (Ctrl+Shift+C), and every cut line a machine follows is one. Learning to build paths with as few nodes as the shape needs is the single skill that most improves vector work.

Node types and editing

In the node tool (N), select nodes and change their character: Shift+S makes a node smooth so the curve flows through it, Shift+C makes it a corner, Shift+Y makes it symmetric. Drag the handles to shape each segment; hold Ctrl to constrain a handle's angle. Insert adds a node midway between selected ones, Del removes a node while preserving the curve shape, and Ctrl+Del removes it without compensation.

Cleaning up

Traced and imported artwork usually carries far too many nodes. Ctrl+L (Path → Simplify) reduces them; pressing it again within a second or two applies a stronger threshold, which you can tune in Preferences → Behavior. Simplify is destructive, so work on a duplicate when the original geometry matters.

Boolean operations

  • Union (Ctrl++) merges shapes into one path — use it before cutting so a machine does not trace shared edges twice.
  • Difference (Ctrl+-) punches the top shape out of the one below; this is how letter counters and holes are made.
  • Intersection (Ctrl+*) keeps only overlap, handy for trimming artwork to a frame.
  • Exclusion, Division and Cut Path handle the remaining cases, including slicing a shape with a line.

Booleans discard the parametric nature of shapes, so set corner radii and star parameters before combining.

Offsets, insets and stroke conversion

Path → Inset and Outset grow or shrink a path — the practical way to add kerf allowance for laser cutting or a sticker border. Linked Offset keeps the relationship live so you can adjust it later. Path → Stroke to Path (Ctrl+Alt+C) turns an outline into a filled shape, which is required whenever a stroke must survive as real geometry rather than as appearance.

Live Path Effects

LPEs apply modifiers without destroying the original path: Power Stroke for variable width, Pattern Along Path for repeating motifs, Rounded Corners, Envelope Deformation and more. They stay editable and are stored in the file, which is one reason to keep your master in Inkscape SVG rather than plain SVG. Flatten with Path → Object to Path when you need a static result for another program.

Habits worth forming

Snap to a grid or guides for anything technical (File → Document Properties), keep closed paths closed, name complex groups, and check the node count in the status bar before exporting. Next: organizing with layers and exporting for a destination.