How to Make a Line Straight in Inkscape?

Inkscape is a powerful vector graphics editor, but standard drawing tools like the Bezier curves can sometimes leave path segments unintentionally curved. This article provides a quick, step-by-step guide on how to force a segment between two nodes to become a perfectly straight line using the Edit Paths by Nodes tool. You will also learn how to convert curved nodes into corner nodes to prevent future warping, ensuring your geometric designs remain crisp and precise.

Step-by-Step Guide to Straightening a Segment

To straighten a specific segment between two existing nodes, follow these steps:

Select the Node Tool: Click on the Edit paths by nodes tool from the left toolbar, or simply press N on your keyboard.
Select the Path: Click on the object or path you want to modify to reveal its nodes.
Select the Segment: Click directly on the curved line segment between the two nodes you wish to straighten. Alternatively, click the first node, hold down the Shift key, and click the second node to select them both.
Make the Segment Straight: Look at the tool control bar at the top of the workspace. Locate and click the Make selected segments lines button (the icon looks like a straight line connecting two nodes).

The curved segment will instantly snap into a perfectly straight line between the two selected points.

Handling Node Handles and Corner Nodes

Sometimes, making a segment a straight line still leaves “handles” on the endpoints, which can cause the line to warp if adjacent segments are moved. To ensure the line stays rigidly straight, you should convert the bounding nodes into corner nodes.

With your nodes still selected, look at the top tool control bar again.
Click the Make selected nodes corner button (the icon features a sharp angle with a node in the center).

Converting the nodes to corner nodes retracts or locks the handles along the path, preventing accidental curves and keeping your straightened segment secure.