How to Create Rounded Corners in Inkscape?
Creating rectangles with rounded corners in Inkscape is a fundamental skill that helps you build modern, sleek vector designs. This article provides a quick overview of the two primary methods to achieve this effect: using the Rectangle Tool’s built-in handle controls for quick adjustments, and utilizing the Path Effects menu for advanced, non-destructive corner styling. Whether you need a simple rounded box or intricate, asymmetrical corners, these techniques will streamline your workflow.
Method 1: Using the Rectangle Tool Controls
The quickest and most common way to round corners is by using the dedicated handles on the rectangle object itself.
- Select the Rectangle Tool: Click the rectangle icon in the left toolbar or press R on your keyboard.
- Draw your shape: Click and drag on the canvas to create your rectangle.
- Locate the rounding handles: Look at the top-right corner of your selected rectangle. You will see a small circular handle (or two, if they overlap).
- Adjust the radius: Click and drag the circular handle downward. Dragging it changes the corner radius.
- Dragging down adjusts the vertical radius.
- Dragging left adjusts the horizontal radius.
- Hold Rx/Ry numerical inputs in the top tool control bar to set exact dimensions if you prefer precise measurements over manual dragging.
Method 2: Using Path Effects for Advanced Control
If you want to round only specific corners or need specialized corner styles (like chamfers or inverted corners), the Path Effects tool is the best approach.
- Convert to Path: Select your rectangle and go to the top menu, then choose Path > Object to Path (or press Shift + Ctrl + C).
- Open Path Effects: Navigate to Path > Path Effects… to open the Path Effects sidebar panel.
- Add Corners Effect: Click the + (plus) icon at the bottom of the panel, search for Corners (Fillet/Chamfer), and select it.
- Edit the Corners: Switch to the Nodes Tool (press N). You will see green nodes appear on each corner of your shape.
- Modify Specific Corners: Drag these green nodes individually to round only the chosen corners, leaving the others sharp. You can also change the corner method in the sidebar panel from “Fillet” (rounded) to “Chamfer” (straight cut).