GIMP Path Tool for Drawing and Adjusting

The Path Tool in GIMP is a powerful feature that allows you to create precise paths for drawing and editing your images. Whether you need open or closed paths, this tool enables you to implement impressive designs. In this tutorial, you will learn how to use the Path tool effectively to fully unleash your creativity.

Key Takeaways

• The Path tool lets you create both straight and curved paths.
• You can manage and rename paths in the Paths dialog.
• You can easily create selections and layer masks from paths.
• The tool offers the option to stroke paths and adjust them to your needs.

Step-by-Step Guide

To use the Path tool, first open GIMP and select your project. Activate the Path tool via the corresponding icon in the toolbox or press the B key on your keyboard.

1. Place the First Anchor Points

Click in your document to set the first anchor point. You can click anywhere in your image to place the point. When you click at another location, a straight line is drawn between the two points.

2. Create Closed Paths

Want to turn an open path into a closed one? Hold down the Control key (Ctrl) and click again on the first anchor point. This will close your path, and the line will connect to form a closed shape.

3. Draw Curves

To create curves, hold down the mouse button on an anchor point and drag. Handles will appear that affect the curvature of the line. Then set another anchor point by clicking and dragging again.

4. Rename Paths

Switch to the Paths dialog to name your newly created path. Double-click on the name, which is set to “Unnamed” by default, and give it an appropriate name such as “Closed Path.”

5. Create Open Paths

Want to create a new open path? Click the paper icon in the Paths dialog to generate a new path. Now set another open path in your image.

6. Hide and Edit Paths

Sometimes you may want to hide your paths or make them visible again later. In the Paths dialog, you can click the eye icon to control the path’s visibility. Then click on one of the lines to select it and show it again.

7. Edit Anchor Points Afterwards

You can edit existing anchor points by selecting them with the active Path tool and dragging them. To create curves, hold down the Control key and drag the handles.

8. Delete and Add Anchor Points

If you want to remove an anchor point, hold down the Control key (Ctrl) and the Shift key while clicking on the anchor point. If you want to add a new anchor point, move the mouse over the line until the plus icon appears, and click to set the point.

9. Create Corner Paths

If you want to create a corner path without curves, enable the polygonal option in the tool options. This way, you can place anchor points without them turning into curves.

10. Create Selections and Layer Masks

To create a selection from a path, click the “Selection from Path” button in the tool options. You will see a selection follow the path, indicated by marching ants.

11. Stroke Path

With the “Stroke Path” option, you can draw lines along your path. Open the menu and select the line width and type, for example a solid or dotted line.

12. Create Simple Strokes with Painting Tools

To stroke the path with more than just a color, you can also select a painting tool. Enable brush dynamics to create the impression of different brush strokes when you stroke.

Summary – GIMP Path Tool: Detailed Guide to Drawing Paths

The Path tool in GIMP offers you a variety of possibilities. You can create precise paths, name them, and adjust them as needed. This makes it easy to create selections and masks that enhance your workflow. Furthermore, you can experiment with stroking paths using different line styles to achieve impressive designs.