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How to Convert Image to Path in Inkscape?

Published in Inkscape Path Conversion 5 mins read

To convert an image to a path (vector graphic) in Inkscape, you utilize the "Trace Bitmap" function, which analyzes the pixel information and creates editable vector paths based on the image's features.

This process, often called autotracing, is a fundamental technique for transforming raster images (like JPEGs or PNGs) into scalable vector art. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:

Step-by-Step Guide: Converting Image to Path

Following a simple workflow can help you effectively convert your raster image into a clean vector path or set of paths in Inkscape.

1. Open Inkscape

Start by launching the Inkscape application on your computer.

2. Find an Image You'd Like to Trace

Choose the image file you want to convert. This could be a logo, drawing, photograph, or any other pixel-based graphic. The quality and contrast of the original image significantly impact the tracing results. Simple, high-contrast images often produce the best automatic traces.

3. Import Image into Inkscape

You need to bring your chosen image file into your Inkscape document.

  • Go to File > Import...
  • Browse to find your image file.
  • Select the file and click Open.
  • In the import dialog that appears, you can usually accept the default settings (linking or embedding is up to your preference, though embedding is often simpler for this task).

4. Trace the Image

This is the core step where Inkscape performs the conversion.

  • Select the image object on your canvas using the Select tool (S key).
  • Go to Path > Trace Bitmap... (or use the shortcut Shift + Alt + B). This will open the Trace Bitmap dialog box.
  • In the dialog box, you'll see various tracing options. The main modes are:
    • Single Scan:
      • Brightness Cutoff: Traces based on a single threshold value. Good for simple black and white images.
      • Edge Detection: Traces based on detecting edges.
      • Color Quantization: Reduces colors and traces based on color areas.
    • Multiple Scans: Creates multiple paths (objects) based on colors or brightness levels, resulting in a more detailed, multi-layered vector graphic.
      • Colors: Traces distinct colors.
      • Grays: Traces distinct shades of gray.
      • Steps of Grays: Similar to Grays but based on a defined number of steps.
      • Posterize: Simplifies the image into a limited number of color/grayscale levels and traces those areas.
  • Choose the method that best suits your image. For a simple silhouette, "Brightness Cutoff" is often effective. For more complex images or illustrations, "Multiple Scans: Colors" is a common choice.
  • Adjust settings like Threshold, Number of Scans, Smooth, or Stack scans based on the selected method. You can click Update to see a preview of the trace result in the dialog.
  • Once you are satisfied with the preview, click Apply. Inkscape will create a new vector object (or group of objects) on top of your original image.

Common Tracing Modes & Use Cases:

Mode Description Best For...
Single Scan: Brightness Cutoff Traces pixels darker than a specified threshold. Simple black & white images, silhouettes
Single Scan: Edge Detection Traces the outlines of shapes based on contrast. Line art, outlines
Multiple Scans: Colors Creates multiple layers of paths based on distinct colors. Logos with multiple colors, simple illustrations
Multiple Scans: Grays Creates layers based on shades of gray. Grayscale images, drawings

5. Remove the Original Image

After the tracing is complete, the new vector path(s) will be placed directly over the original bitmap image.

  • The traced object(s) should still be selected. Carefully drag the selected vector object(s) away from the original image.
  • Select the original bitmap image (which is still underneath or beside the traced vector).
  • Press the Delete key to remove the original image. You are now left with only the vector path(s).

6. Save the Vector Image

Your converted vector graphic is now ready.

  • Go to File > Save As...
  • Choose a suitable location and file name.
  • Select a vector file format from the dropdown menu, such as:
    • *Inkscape SVG (.svg):** Inkscape's native format, preserves layers and Inkscape-specific features.
    • *Plain SVG (.svg):** Standard SVG format, widely compatible.
    • *PDF (.pdf):** Good for sharing and printing, preserves vectors.
  • Click Save.

You have successfully converted your image into an editable path in Inkscape, ready for scaling, editing nodes, and further manipulation without losing quality.

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