KenShape

KenShape

KenShape is a free, open-source 2D illustration and vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It provides tools for drawing shapes, paths, text, and images to create digital artwork, diagrams, logos, icons, etc. Key features include Bezier curves, gradients, shape tools
KenShape image
illustration vector-graphics bezier-curves gradients shape-tools text-on-path boolean-operations

KenShape: Free 2D Illustration and Vector Graphics Editor

Free, open-source 2D illustration and vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac, and Linux, providing tools for drawing shapes, paths, text, and images to create digital artwork, diagrams, logos, icons, etc.

What is KenShape?

KenShape is a feature-rich, free and open-source vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It can be used to create a wide variety of 2D graphics and artwork ranging from simple shapes and icons to complex illustrations and technical diagrams.

Some of the key features of KenShape include:

  • Tools for drawing basic shapes (rectangle, ellipse, polygon, etc), freehand paths using bezier curves and straight lines, paint brush for freehand drawing
  • Gradient and pattern fills for coloring shapes and paths
  • Powerful text on path tool for adding text to shapes and curves
  • Boolean operations like union, difference, intersection, etc for combining different shapes
  • Grouping and layering for easier organization and manipulation
  • Import/export to common vector graphic formats like SVG, PDF, EPS, etc
  • Scripting and plugin support for advanced customization

An intuitive user interface with customizable workspaces, keyboard shortcuts for faster workflows, and helpful widgets like grids, snap-to guides further simplify creation of 2D graphics. The open-source nature of KenShape allows extending its native capabilities via community-driven plugins and scripts.

Overall, KenShape is an excellent, free alternative to premium tools like Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, and Affinity Designer catering to hobbyists, students, designers, engineers, and graphics enthusiasts looking for a capable vector drawing program without the high cost.

KenShape Features

Features

  1. Drawing shapes
  2. Drawing paths
  3. Adding text
  4. Adding images
  5. Bezier curves
  6. Gradients
  7. Shape tools
  8. Text on path
  9. Boolean operations

Pricing

  • Free
  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Available on Windows, Mac and Linux

Good set of vector graphics tools

Easy to use interface

Supports common image formats

Cons

Limited compared to advanced vector editors

Less features than paid alternatives

Small user community and documentation


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