How to Embed an Image in Inkscape?

When you import an image into Inkscape, the software defaults to linking the file to keep the document size small, which can cause the image to go missing if the original file is moved or deleted. To prevent broken links and ensure your project is completely self-contained, you can permanently embed the image into the SVG file. This article provides a quick, step-by-step guide on how to embed images both during the initial import process and after they have already been placed on your canvas.

Embedding an Image During Import

The easiest way to embed an image is to do it the moment you bring the file into Inkscape.

1. Go to the top menu and select File > Import (or press Ctrl + I / Cmd + I).
2. Choose the image file you want to use and click Open.
3. A dialog box titled png/jpeg bitmap image import will appear.
4. Under the Image Import Type section, select the Embed radio button.
5. Click OK, and your image will be permanently saved inside the SVG file.

Embedding an Already Linked Image

If you have already imported an image as a link and want to change it to an embedded image later, you can do so directly from the canvas.

1. Click on the image you want to embed to select it.
2. Right-click the image to open the context menu.
3. Select Embed Image from the list.

Alternatively, you can select the image, go to the top menu, and navigate to Extensions > Images > Embed Images…, then click Apply.

Managing Multiple Images via the Objects Dialog

If you are working with a large project containing multiple linked images, you can manage and embed them all from a centralized menu.

1. Open the Objects menu by going to Object > Objects… (or Layer > Layers and Objects… depending on your Inkscape version).
2. Look for the image elements in the list, which are typically indicated by an image icon.
3. Select the linked image, right-click it within the dialog, and choose Embed Image.