Make & keep
Curve a short caption around a photo badge in Inkscape
Put editable text on a path, then hide the path’s visible stroke.
A curved badge caption can follow a round portrait window without rasterising the type or changing the photo pixels. Inkscape can attach text to a path while leaving both objects editable. Use a short phrase and test spacing before duplicating the treatment across multiple prints at final size.
Draw a guide path
Create a circle or arc where the caption should sit, then type the wording as a separate text object. Keep the phrase short enough to fit the curve without crowding its ends.
Evidence: Current Inkscape user manual
Attach the text
Select the text and the path, then choose Text → Put on Path. Adjust the text or path position until the baseline follows the intended arc. Both remain editable, so you can change the wording or curve later.
Evidence: Current Inkscape user manual
Hide the guide line
Remove the path’s stroke and fill if it should not print, while keeping the path object in the document. Export a page proof and check letter spacing and readability at the actual badge size.
Evidence: Current Inkscape user manual
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- Inkscape Beginners Guide — Putting Text on a PathCurrent Inkscape user manual