How to Remove Text from Path in Inkscape

When you attach text to a path in Inkscape, the text bends and flows along the shape of that line. If you later decide you want to separate them, Inkscape provides a built-in feature to instantly detach the text while preserving your original wording. This guide covers how to quickly remove text from a path, what happens to your text afterward, and how to permanently lock the text into its curved shape if you want to delete the path entirely.

Detaching Text from a Path

To remove text from a path and return it to a standard, straight text block, use the Remove from Path command. This completely breaks the link between the two objects.

• Step 1: Select the Select and Transform Objects tool (the black arrow) from the left toolbar, or press S.
• Step 2: Click on the text that is currently attached to the path.
• Step 3: Go to the top menu bar and click on Text.
• Step 4: Select Remove from Path from the dropdown menu.

Once clicked, the text will instantly flatten out and return to its default horizontal alignment, completely independent of the line it was once bound to.

Handling Text Behavior After Separation

When you use the “Remove from Path” command, the text is restored to its original state, but its position on the canvas might shift.

• Orientation: The text loses all curvature and returns to a straight line.
• Location: The text usually snaps back to the original coordinates it occupied before it was ever applied to the path. You may need to drag it back to your main workspace if it moves out of view.
• The Path Object: The original line or shape remains on your canvas exactly as it was. You can reuse it for other text, modify its nodes, or delete it entirely if it is no longer needed.

Alternative: Keeping the Curved Shape Without the Path

Sometimes you don’t actually want to flatten the text; you just want to get rid of the visible line underneath it while keeping the text beautifully curved. If you delete the path normally, the text will automatically straighten out. To prevent this, you must convert the text into permanent vector shapes.

• Step 1: Select the text while it is still attached to the path.
• Step 2: Go to the top menu and select Path > Object to Path.
• Step 3: Click on the path line itself and press Delete on your keyboard.

By converting the object to a path, Inkscape transforms your text from editable letters into permanent vector shapes. The text will freeze in its curved position, allowing you to delete the underlying line safely without losing your design layout. Note that you will no longer be able to type or change the spelling of the text once this conversion is made.