How to Remove Background from Image using Inkscape

Part 1. Inkscape Remove Background from Photo

Inkscape provides multiple methods for removing backgrounds from photos, depending on the image type and the level of precision required. Instead of using an automatic background remover, Inkscape relies on vector-based tools that allow users to control how the background is removed manually.

One of the most commonly used methods to remove background Inkscape is the Trace Bitmap feature. This tool converts raster images into vector paths by detecting edges and contrasts, making it easier to separate the main subject from the background. It works best for images with high contrast, such as logos or photos with solid-colored backgrounds.

Another effective approach to Inkscape remove background from photo is using the Bezier Tool. Many designers on the Inkscape community forums recommend using manual path clipping when working with photographs, as automatic tracing often struggles with complex backgrounds. This method involves manually outlining the subject by drawing paths around it, then removing or hiding the background layer. Although more time-consuming, it provides greater accuracy for complex images where automatic tracing may not deliver clean results. By combining these tools, Inkscape allows users to remove backgrounds with precision and flexibility.

Part 2. How to Remove Background from Image in Inkscape

In this section, you'll learn how to remove background from images in Inkscape using two common methods. The first method focuses on removing a white background, which is ideal for logos and simple graphics. The second method explains how Inkscape removes background from a photo using manual path clipping, which works better for complex images such as portraits or landscapes.

1. Steps to Remove White Background in Inkscape

If you are working with logos or images that have a solid white background, this method is the most efficient way to remove background Inkscape. Inkscape’s Trace Bitmap feature allows you to convert the image into vector paths and separate the subject from the background. Follow the steps below to remove a white background from an image in Inkscape:

Step 1: Launch the Inkscape app on your PC, Mac, or Linux system.

Step 2: Before you open the logo image, it is suggested to incorporate a rectangle into the drawing area of the app. This addition will be helpful to illustrate that the image has a white background. You can tap on the “Rectangles and Squares” option from the tool panel.

Step 3: Now, just add a rectangle to the drawing area.

Step 4: Then, import the image for removing the background to white by opening the file menu and clicking the option to Import.

Step 5: After this, it's time to import the sample logo file to Inkscape i.e., “logo.png”.

Step 6: Then, you will see a dialog appearing on the screen specifying the settings. Now, tap on Ok.

Step 7: The logo file has been imported to the app, and you shall be able to see that the rectangular shape in the backdrop has eliminated the confusion of mixing the white background of the logo image with the Inkscape app area.

Step 8: Now, from the left tool panel, tap on the “Select and transform” option.

Step 9: Then, launch the Path menu followed by selecting the Trace Bitmap using the drop-down menu.

The Trace Bitmap tool works on the algorithm that creates vector tracing of the chosen image. In the dialog box of the Trace Bitmap, you can use the Single Scan tab. From there, click on the Brightness cutoff option and then select the Update button to get the preview of the traced image on the right.

Step 10: After this, from the “Multiple Scans”, check on Smooth and uncheck Remove Background.

Step 11: Thereafter, tap on the Update button to view the traced logo image. Then, hit on the Apply option to save the settings.

Since the “Remove Background” option was activated in the Multi scans window, the white background will be removed from the traced image.

Step 12: Now, you need to click left on the added logo image. Then, from the opened menu, hit on the option to Delete. After this, you can set the image parameters as per your choice.

This is the most common workflow to remove background Inkscape for logos and simple images with uniform backgrounds.

2. Steps to Remove Background from a Photo in Inkscape

For photos with complex backgrounds, such as portraits or landscape images, the Trace Bitmap method is usually not sufficient. In this case, you need a more precise approach. This method shows how Inkscape remove background from photo using manual path clipping.

Step 1: Open Inkscape and import the photo you want to edit.

Step 2: Select the Bezier Pen tool from the toolbox, and in the tool settings, enable the "BSpline" mode for smooth curves.

Step 3: Carefully click to add points around the subject of your photo, pulling the outline of the subject. Connect the path when you reach the starting point.

Step 4: Once the path is complete, select both the image and the path. Go to Object > Clip > Set to apply the path as a clipping mask. This will remove the background and leave only the subject of the photo visible.

Step 5: Refine the result if necessary by adjusting the nodes using the Edit paths by nodes tool.

Step 6: Save or export the final image as a PNG.

3. Pros and Cons of Removing Background from Image in Inkscape

Now that you understand how to remove a background in Inkscape, it’s important to consider the advantages and limitations of using this tool before choosing it for your workflow.

Part 3. The Easiest Inkscape Alternatives to Remove Background from Image

Inkscape is a powerful solution to remove background Inkscape, but it may feel complex for beginners or users who want faster results. If you are looking for a simpler option, tools like HitPaw Online Background Remover provide an easier alternative. While not as advanced as Inkscape, it allows users to remove image backgrounds quickly with minimal effort.

What Makes HitPaw Online the Best Inkscape Background Removal Alternative

• Complete free to remove background from image
• Smart AI-powered processing, simply upload your image and let the tool handle the rest
• No ads and no watermarks, ensuring clean and professional results
• Compatible with Mac, iOS, Windows and Android
• Easy to use, works in a couple of three simple steps
• Safe and secure, protecting your uploaded images
• Continuously updated with new features

How to Remove Image Background with HitPaw Online Background Remover

• 1

  From any web browser, visit the official site to access the HitPaw Online Background Remover. Click Remove BG Now to start. You can also download the desktop version for free to get HitPaw's more advanced background removal features.

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• 3

  In the Online Background Remover toolkit, click Choose Images to upload your file and start removing the background automatically.

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• 4

  After the background removal, click the Download button to download the transparent image.

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FAQs of Removing Background in Inkscape

The Bottom Line

This guide has shown you how to remove background from an image in Inkscape using different methods, including Trace Bitmap for simple backgrounds and manual path clipping for more complex photos. Inkscape is a powerful and flexible tool, especially for users who are comfortable with vector-based editing and detailed adjustments. If you need precise control for logos or vector assets, Inkscape is a solid choice. For quick background removal from photos, automated tools may be more efficient. Tools like HitPaw Online Background Remover allow you to remove background from images automatically in just a few clicks, without advanced editing skills. Choose the method that best fits your experience level and project requirements to achieve clean, professional-looking images.