How to Combine Paths in Inkscape?

Inkscape offers several ways to merge separate paths into a single object, depending on whether you want them to remain distinct sub-paths or blend into a unified shape. This article provides a quick, step-by-step guide on using the Combine command for overlapping or disconnected lines, alongside the Union tool for melting intersecting shapes together. You will also learn how to connect the open endpoints of two paths to create one continuous line.

Method 1: The Combine Command (Non-Destructive Grouping)

The Combine tool group separate paths into a single path object. It is ideal for independent lines or shapes that need to share the same style, or for creating “holes” in shapes (like the center of a donut).

  1. Select the Select and Transform Objects tool (the black arrow) from the left toolbar.
  2. Hold down the Shift key and click on each of the paths you want to merge.
  3. Navigate to the top menu and select Path > Combine, or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + K (Cmd + K on Mac).

If the shapes were overlapping, the intersecting area may become transparent. To reverse this process later, you can select the path and go to Path > Break Apart.

Method 2: The Union Command (Melting Shapes Together)

If you have two overlapping shapes and you want to completely erase the intersecting lines to create a single, seamless outline, you should use the Union command.

  1. Use the Select tool to click and drag over both shapes, or hold Shift while clicking them.
  2. Go to the top menu and select Path > Union, or press Ctrl + Plus (+).

Unlike the Combine command, Union is destructive and permanently welds the outer boundaries together, turning them into one solid shape.

Method 3: Connecting Endpoints of Two Open Paths

If you have two separate line segments and you want to join their tips together to make one continuous line, you need to combine them first and then join their nodes.

  1. Select both paths using the Select tool.
  2. Go to Path > Combine (Ctrl + K) so Inkscape recognizes them as a single object.
  3. Switch to the Edit paths by nodes tool (the second arrow down on the left toolbar, or press N).
  4. Click and drag a selection box around the two endpoints you want to connect.
  5. Look at the tool control bar at the top of the screen and click the Join selected nodes icon (which looks like two nodes merging into one), or press Shift + J.