- Inkscape is an open source vector graphics editor
- Features robust toolset for creating/editing illustrations and graphics
- Runs on Windows, Mac OS X and Linux
- License: GNU GPL
Inkscape is used to create illustrations, diagrams, line art, charts, logos and complex images. It pairs well with other data visualization applications (including R, Tableux, Open Refine, Google Maps, D3.js, etc.) and provides a great degree of control for changing the appearance and layout of the data elements and combining them with other visuals to create infographics.
INKSCAPE FEATURES
- Perfectly compliant SVG format file generation and editing
- Scalability of graphics to any size without loss of detail
- Tools for object creation and manipulation: shapes, paths, text, markers, alpha blending, transforms, gradients, patterns, cloning
- Import/export most widely used graphics file formats, including SVG, PNG, JPEG, GIF, OpenDocument Drawing, DXF, PDF, EPS and PostScript
- Multi-lingual support: Arabic, Chinese, English, Farsi, French, Russian and Spanish
- Command line options for export and conversions
- XML editor for live watching and editing the document tree
The installer package includes the SVG editor, optional tutorials and example files, and additional languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, Farsi, French, Russian and Spanish).
Download current versions at https://inkscape.org/en/download/
- Learning Inkscape
- Inkscape Guide to a Vector Drawing Program (4th Edition, English)
- A Crash Course in Inkscape
Inkscape Interface.
Image credit: A Crash Course in Inkscape. ChrisHilbig. ChrisHilbig.com
TUTORIALS & INSTRUCTION
- Creating Vector Graphics Using Inkscape
- Inkscape Tutorials Blog
- How to import EPS files into Inkscape: sStep-by-step guide to setting up Inkscape to read EPS files
- Converting EPS to PDF for Windows Using Ghostscript
- Making Infographics Using R and Inkscape
VISUAL PERCEPTION & DESIGN
Inkscape tutorial: Elements of Design
General overview demonstrating the elements and principles of design
Data Services: Creating Infographics with Inkscape; NIH
Learn about principles of visual perception, best practices for data visualization, and resources for designing professional-looking infographics. Course provides hands-on practice with Inkscape. Class Lecture slides
10 Tips For Creating Good Looking Diagrams Using Inkscape
TOOLS FOR DATA VISUALIZATION
Libre Graphics World - 3D/Design/Photography
News, tutorials and book reviews on all open source design, image editing, video editing, desktop publishing and CAD software; provides up to date information about these applications and best practices.
Visualizing Information for Advocacy
List of free tools available online for data visualization, data cleaning, spotting patterns, etc. Includes a guide to help choose the right tool for creating a visualization.