When discussing open-source vector graphics software, few can rival the popularity and quality of Inkscape, and its latest version has just been launched.
Inkscape 1.4 introduces a host of new features while enhancing accessibility, alongside bug fixes, code improvements, stability enhancements, and performance optimizations (including quicker extensions).
A new Filter Gallery dialog serves as Inkscape describes, “your new gateway to the realm of filters. Visit the Filters menu to locate it and your preferred options more easily, with previews organized by category or searchable through keywords in the search bar.”
Creating designs that require symmetry or evenly distributed elements is now simpler thanks to an on-screen grid feature.
Inkscape has long provided support for grids, but the method for selecting the right grid for specific tasks has greatly enhanced in version 1.4. The new modular grids feature allows you to customize precise parameters, including specific heights and widths, as well as the size of vertical gaps.
Moreover, if you’re into creating stunning isometric designs, such as 3D icons, you’ll be excited to know that Inkscape 1.4 introduces enhanced axonometric grids that enable you to adjust grid angles based on ratios.
The size, color, stroke width, outline, and opacity of on-canvas handles can be adjusted, and any modifications made to the underlying CSS file will show up immediately in the application without the need for a restart. While it’s certainly possible to customize them, the default handles now feature an updated appearance.
Given the significance of fonts in design, Inkscape 1.4 brings notable typographic improvements, including an upgraded SVG font editor and a new font browser with visual previews of different fonts, an area for custom sample text, and several additional enhancements.
Inkscape 1.4 introduces some exciting features:
- Revamped Swatches dialog
- Shape Builder Tool designed for clipping raster graphics into various sections
- Draw squares using the Rectangle tool by pressing
alt+ctrlwhile using the Rectangle tool - Streamlined Object Properties dialog
- Introduction of a new ‘Dash’ icon set
- Capability to work with Affinity Designer files1
- Support for internal links in PDF exports
- Templates for folding booklets
- Enhanced options for Ruler and Taper Stroke LPE
- Spray tool now includes outline preview
Interested in these new features?
Get Inkscape 1.4 now
Inkscape is a free and open-source application that is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
You can download Inkscape directly from its official website, and Linux users have the choice of utilizing a distro-agnostic AppImage file.
For Linux users, Inkscape can be found on Flathub and through the Canonical Snap Store. However, at the time of this writing, those versions are on v1.3. If you’re eager to get Inkscape 1.4 immediately, it’s advisable to use the AppImage. Additionally, consider installing Gear Lever for convenient management, integration, and updates of AppImages on Ubuntu.
- Included as a component of a GSoC project by Manpreet Singh (further information can be found on their blog) ↩︎