If you want to begin designing your own SVG cut files, Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape is the answer. Learn the difference between Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape and which software is the best fit for you!
Whether you’ve been designing for years or you're new to designing your own cut files, you may be wondering what is vector graphic software and which one should you use?
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What is a Vector Graphic Software?
Vector graphic software is used by graphic designers, web designers and professional illustrators to create high-quality, vector-based artwork (i.e. SVG cut files).
And now more than ever, this type of software is being used by crafters just like you.
The design opportunities with a vector graphic software are far greater than designing with the design software that comes with your cutting machine.
The most popular vector graphic softwares are Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape.
Let's go over some of the key similarities and differences between Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape.
What Is the Cost Difference Between Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape?
Cost can be a major factor in determining which design software you choose.
Inkscape is currently free to users while Adobe Illustrator is around $20 a month.
The cost of Inkscape is hard to beat. Everyone likes free! If you're just dipping your toe into the water to see if you like designing this is a great place to start.
However, if you know you love to design and have a passion for it, Adobe Illustrator is the software you're going to want to put on your resume!
Adobe Illustrator offers a free trial for you to see what all of the hype is about. Although it is limited, schedule your free trial when you have a weekend to play around with it and see what you can do.
You can always cancel and restart your Adobe Illustrator subscription anytime as well.
Looking for More Information on Adobe Illustrator? See How it Compares to Cricut Design Space here or Silhouette Studio here.
How Does Support Compare Between Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape?
A community of volunteers runs Inkscape, meaning there is no dedicated support staff. This can be frustrating when you're trying to learn a new program.
They use a community forum where you can find answers to your questions from people who've already posted or you can post a new question in the forum to solicit answers from the community.
On the other hand, Adobe Illustrator has a dedicated customer support team. They can help troubleshoot any issues you're having with the software and they also provide a number of videos, tutorials and additional education to their customers.
What Are the Different Features of Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape?
For the most part, Inkscape and Adobe Illustrator have the same features when it comes to designing cut files.
However, if you want to branch out into other types of design, you'll experience limitations.
Adobe Illustrator offers all of the bells and whistles when it comes to design, with additional tools and features that will make your workflow more efficient.
How Does Credibility Compare Between Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape?
Inkscape is great for new designers but if you’re serious about designing, this isn’t the design software you’ll be adding to your resume.
Adobe Illustrator is the industry-standard software used by graphic designers, web designers, illustrators, and visual artists.
If you’re looking to add skills for future employment, this is a resume builder for sure!
Do I Need Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape to Design My Own Cut Files?
While vector graphic softwares can be intimidating and overwhelming, there's a reason why crafters are investing in learning to use them versus using the design software that comes with your cutting machine.
Check out my blog posts to learn about the differences between a vector graphic software and Cricut Design Space and Silhouette Studio.
Once you learn how to use either Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape, you'll want to continue investing in yourself and learning to design even more than a simple text cut file.
I love being able to design 3D cut files, multi-layered designs, print then cut designs for projects like DIY stickers, patterns used for digital or custom paper, and so much more.
And using a professional software allows you to share your designs with fellow crafters. You can even open up your own SVG shop!
Want to Design Your Own Cut Files?
Whether you just started crafting or begin creating your own cut files, I'm here to help.
In my new SVG Design School, I teach you everything you need to know to design your own cut files.
Starting from the basics, I cover editing, text, colors, saving your design, and so much more.
Throughout the course, I’m including a variety of class projects. These projects are designed to put into practice the skills you'll learn in the course.
I’ve found that the best way to really learn how to design is to do it yourself.
Click Here to Learn More About SVG Design School
wow... Such great information. I was never sure what program I could use to design an svg... I just always used design space. Im going to download inkspace now.