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How to Erase in Inkscape
In this tutorial, learn how to erase in Inkscape with the Eraser Tool!
Are you new to Inkscape and wondering how to erase a shape or part of a path? In Inkscape, like most design software, there are a number of ways to accomplish the same task. One way to erase shapes or part of a path is to use the Eraser Tool. In this tutorial we'll go over the three ways you can use the Eraser Tool.
Step 1 - Draw a Shape
In this tutorial I will draw an ellipse with the Create Circles, Ellipses, and Arcs Tool. Select the tool, then click, hold, and drag diagonally on the screen to create an ellipse.
Note, the eraser tool can be used with shapes or paths including imported vector files such as SVG. You cannot use the Eraser tool with a PNG or JPEG.
Step 2 - Select the Eraser Tool
You can select the Eraser Tool from the left toolbar or use the shortcut Shift + E. You have 3 options with the eraser tool.
Option 1 - Delete Objects Touched by Eraser
When you draw the eraser stroke, any objects touching that stroke will be completely erased. In this case, the whole ellipse will be completely erased. This is an easy way to delete a whole object. There are no additional features to this Eraser Tool option.
Option 2 - Cut Out from Paths and Shapes
When you draw the eraser stroke, the stroke will be cut out from the shape. What remains will be a path. This is a fun way to cut out designs from a shape - think snowflakes!
With this Eraser Tool option, you have the added feature to Break Apart Cut Items. If you select this option, then make an eraser line that goes all the way through the shape. You are left with 2 objects as you can see below.
Option 3 - Clip from Objects
When you draw the eraser stroke, the stroke will be clipped from the shape so the original shape will remain its own path.
The added fun of using this Eraser tool option, is you can use the clip features that Inkscape offers. If you go to Object > Clip > Set Inverse, you can switch which part is visible.
Next up, check out our Inkscape tutorials on using the bezier curve tool, creating perspective text, and adding patterns to text.
