In part 1 of this tutorial series on Bezier curves, we learned the basics of using the Bezier tool, also known as the Pen Tool, in Inkscape to create new stroke paths. In part 2 on Bezier curves, we learned how to add several nodes to an existing stroke path, creating a multi-curved arc on one stroke path. We also learned how to use the Arc Adjustment tool, to set the arc or curve of different areas of our stroke path.

In part 3, we learned how to move and edit individual nodes on our multi-curved stroke path.

Today we are going to learn how to join two stroke paths into one. Open up Inkscape to our previous lesson file called Goldy.

You should have a finished stroke path like this:

Use the Edit Nodes tool  to add a new stroke path. As you are clicking areas for the node points, I recommend placing them at the end of the curve path and/or in the middle of the curve path, depending on where you want your arcs to turn. This just takes practice and experimenting, so give it a try.

After clicking the placement of your Nodes, press the Enter key on your keyboard to draw the stroke in. You should have something like this:

Shift-Click and then drag the third node to view and adjust the arcs with the Arc Circle tool. Now, you will have to use a combination of adjusting the arcs and moving the nodes along the path to get the desired results.

To refresh, use the circle handlebars on each node to adjust the arc of the curve path.

Use Alt-Click on a node to be able to adjust it on the stroke path. You will know it’s adjustable because the square node will turn Yellow. You can use the arrow keys on the keyboard or the mouse to move it along the path.

After adjusting, you should have something like this. Click the image below for a larger screenshot:

Now, even though they are close together and overlap, these are still two distinct stroke paths. To combine them Shift-Click both paths:

Then click on the top menu Path | Combine (or Ctrl-K) to combine the two paths. Now you have one stroke path with all the nodes still intact and able to be edited:

Save your file and then practice adjusting the arcs and moving the nodes on the combined path to see how combining them affects things. Happy vectoring!