How to Install Inkscape on Fedora 40/39/38 Linux

This guide will demonstrate how to install Inkscape on Fedora Linux using the command-line terminal, utilizing either the DNF Package Manager with Fedora’s RPM or the Flatpak package manager with the Flathub third-party repository.

Inkscape stands out as a robust vector graphics editor, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for designers, illustrators, and anyone needing to create or edit vector images. Its compatibility with various file formats, alongside a user-friendly interface, makes it a go-to choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Let’s delve into the key features that set Inkscape apart:

• Versatile Toolset: Inkscape boasts an extensive array of tools for object creation, including shapes, lines, and freehand drawing, catering to a wide range of design needs.
• Advanced Text Handling: With its sophisticated text manipulation capabilities, Inkscape supports multi-line text and kerning, offering creative flexibility.
• Path Editing: Fine-tune your designs with advanced path editing features, allowing for intricate adjustments and precise control over your artwork.
• Node Editing: Manipulate nodes with precision, offering the ability to sculpt paths and shapes to your exact requirements.
• Color Management: Inkscape provides comprehensive color management options, supporting various color profiles and palettes for accurate color reproduction.
• Layer Management: Organize your artwork efficiently with Inkscape’s layer management system, enabling a structured approach to design.
• File Compatibility: Inkscape supports a wide range of file formats, ensuring seamless integration with other design tools and software.
• Community Support: Benefit from a vibrant community of Inkscape users and developers that offers resources, tutorials, and support to enhance your Inkscape experience.

With these features at your fingertips, you can confidently tackle any vector graphic project. Now, let’s move on to the technical guide on how to install Inkscape on Fedora Linux.

Install Inkscape on Fedora Linux via DNF

Update Fedora Before Inkscape Installation

Before installing new software, it is always advisable to ensure your system is current. Run the following command to update Fedora:

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

This command will fetch and update your Fedora system’s latest installed package versions. The ‘–refresh’ flag ensures that the local cache of software metadata is updated before the upgrade.

Install Inkscape via DNF Command

With your Fedora system now up-to-date, you can install Inkscape using the following command:

sudo dnf install inkscape

This command will fetch Inkscape from the Fedora repository and install it on your system.

Install Inkscape on Fedora Linux via Flatpak and Flathub

Enable Flathub Repository For Inkscape Installation

The first step in installing Inkscape via Flatpak is to enable the Flathub repository. Run the following command to add Flathub as a remote repository if it doesn’t already exist:

sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub

Occasionally, even after adding the Flathub repository, it might be automatically disabled. You can ensure it is enabled using the following command:

flatpak remote-modify --enable flathub

These commands ensure Flatpak can access and fetch applications from the Flathub repository.

Install Inkscape via Flatpak Command

Now that Flathub is enabled, you can install Inkscape. Use the following command to fetch and install Inkscape from Flathub:

flatpak install flathub org.inkscape.Inkscape

Here, org.inkscape.Inkscape is the unique identifier for Inkscape in the Flatpak application system. This command fetches Inkscape from the Flathub repository and installs it on your Fedora system.

Starting Inkscape on Fedora

CLI Commands to Launch Inkscape

The command-line interface (CLI) can be an efficient tool for launching applications in Fedora Linux. To launch Inkscape, you have two commands based on the installation method: DNF or Flatpak.

If you installed Inkscape using the DNF method, the command to launch it is:

inkscape

If you installed Inkscape via Flatpak from Flathub, you can launch it using the following command:

flatpak run org.inkscape.Inkscape

In the Flatpak command, org.inkscape.Inkscape represents the unique identifier for Inkscape in the Flatpak system.

GUI Method to Launch Inkscape

For users who prefer the Graphical User Interface (GUI), launching Inkscape follows a straightforward path:

1. Click on the Activities option in your Fedora Desktop’s top-left corner.
2. Choose Show Applications – often represented with a grid of dots.
3. Scroll through the list of applications or use the search bar at the top to find Inkscape.
4. Click on the Inkscape icon to start the application.

First-Time Tips with Inkscape on Fedora

Now that you have successfully installed Inkscape on Fedora Linux, here are some first-time tips on getting started with the software:

General Inkscape Tips for Fedora Linux Users

• Explore the Interface: Familiarize yourself with the Inkscape interface. Look for the Command Bar, Toolbox, and Panels to understand where everything is located.
• Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn the keyboard shortcuts. Inkscape provides a plethora of shortcuts that can significantly speed up your workflow. Use Ctrl + Shift + P to open the preferences panel and view the keyboard shortcuts.
• Use the Help Resources: Access the Help menu for tutorials, FAQs, and a manual. Inkscape’s user community is vibrant and supportive, with a wealth of knowledge for new users.

Inkscape Customizations for Enhanced Experience on Fedora Linux

• Tailor Your Workspace: Adjust your workspace to suit your needs. You can do this by going to File > Inkscape Preferences and tweaking the options under the Interface section.
• Performance Tuning: Optimize performance by setting the number of undo levels in the preferences. Use Ctrl + Shift + P, navigate to Input/Output and then set the Number of undo levels.
• Tool Setups: Customize tool behaviors through the preferences dialog. Each tool can be fine-tuned for your specific use-case, like default font for the text tool or default stroke width for the draw tool.

Other Tips to Enhance Your Inkscape Experience on Fedora Linux

• SVG as Default Format: Always save your work in Inkscape’s native SVG format to maintain editability and scalability.
• Extensions and Add-ons: Enhance Inkscape’s functionality with extensions. You can find them under Edit > Preferences > System: here, you will see the user extensions directory where you can add new extensions.
• Troubleshooting: Should you encounter any issues, consult the Help > Inkscape Manual or use the --verb-list command in the terminal to debug verb-related problems.

Remember, the key to mastery in Inkscape is practice and exploration. Please take advantage of Inkscape’s rich feature set and customize it to complement your workflow on Fedora Linux.

Managing Inkscape on Fedora

Update Inkscape

Regular updates are a cornerstone of software maintenance, ensuring your Inkscape installation’s security and functionality. Although updates are often notified automatically, it’s a good practice to check for them manually periodically. Below are the processes to check for updates:

DNF Update Method For Inkscape

This command refreshes your repositories and updates all the packages installed in your system, Inkscape included:

sudo dnf update --refresh

Flatpak Update Method For Inkscape

If you have installed Inkscape using Flatpak, you can update it using the command:

flatpak update

Remove Inkscape

DNF Removal Method For Inkscape

To uninstall Inkscape and its associated packages via DNF, use the following command:

sudo dnf remove inkscape

Flatpak Removal Method For Inkscape

If you installed Inkscape through Flatpak, you can uninstall it using this command:

flatpak remove org.inkscape.Inkscape

Final Thoughts

We’ve walked through the process of installing Inkscape on Fedora Linux, highlighting two methods using DNF Package Manager and Flatpak. As you embark on your creative journey with Inkscape, remember it’s a powerful tool with a plethora of features to explore. Dive into its extensive toolset, experiment with different functionalities, and don’t hesitate to tap into the community for additional insights and support. Happy designing!