Path (GIMP)
This article discusses Paths (graphic design) in GIMP.
Contents
Description
Paths are curves (known as Bézier-curves).
A path is either open or closed.
- An open path has two endpoints: it is an articulated line
- A closed path has no endpoint: it is an articulated circle
Purposes
Paths have two main purposes:
- Paths can be stroked -- that is, painted on the image in a variety of ways
- Convert a closed path to a selection
Path tool
The Paths tool allows you draw arbitrary paths for a variety of purposes.
To use the Paths tool in GIMP, you must first create a path.
You may then take various path-related actions, including:
- Save the path
- Stroke the path
- Create a selection from the path
Creating a path
Start by drawing the outline for your path; the outline can be modified later (see the Paths tool). To start, select the Paths tool using one of the following methods:
- Use Tools → Path from the image menu
- Use the relevant icon in toolbox
- Use the hotkey B
When the Paths tool is selected, the mouse cursor changes into a pointer (arrow) with a curve.
Left click in the image to create the first point on the path. Move the mouse to a new point and left click the mouse to create another point linked to the previous point.
Although you can create as many points as you desire, you only need two points to learn about Paths.
While adding points, the mouse cursor has a little “+” next to the curve, which indicates that clicking will add a new point.
When the mouse cursor is close to a line segment, the “+” changes into a cross with arrows; like the move tool.
Stroke path
The term “Stroke path” means to apply a specific style to the path (color, width, pattern... ).
