Inkscape

Inskape is intended to edit vector graphics, which makes it ideal for creating any kind of image that needs to be scaled without losing the original quality.

Therefore, it is a good choice for printing or web publishing. The app has an intuitive interface, which is very similar to those of other graphic editors, so, you will probably be able to start using it without even needing to consult the help documentation.

Inskape comes multiple convenient features, which you can expand thanks to its support of additional filters and extensions. As most advanced graphic editors, it supports using layers as well as grouping objects for easier manipulation. You can find most of the tools present in even the most sophisticated products. Just as examples, Inskape comes with a Pencil tool for freehand drawing and a Pen tool for straight lines and Bezier curves. Besides, it lets you create calligraphic strokes. Moreover, you can insert text objects, which can be checked for spelling errors.

Just as other editors of its kind, this app lets you create and manipulate a wide range of shapes, including rectangles, ellipses, stars, polygons and spirals, which you can fill with the desired color with the possibility of using gradients. These objects can easily be moved, scaled, rotated and skewed, both manually or by providing the exact numbers.

To conclude, Inkscape is definitely a no-cost alternative for more sophisticated (and expensive) products. It can be greatly appreciated by artists, engineers and amateurs alike. The product is compatible with a wide range of picture formats, including JPEG, PNG, TIFF and EPS, as well as practically all vector-based formats. The only inconvenience is that it requires downloading and installing additional software XQuartz.