Inkscape

Inkscape is an open-source vector graphics editor similar to Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw, Freehand, or Xara X. The most important difference here is that Inkscape uses Scalable Vector Graphics (svg), an open XML-based standard as the native format. In contrast to raster (bitmap) graphics editors such as Photoshop or Gimp, Inkscape stores its graphics in a vector format. Vector graphics is resolution-independent description of the actual shapes and objects that you see in the image. A rasterization engine uses this information to determine how to plot each line and curve at any resolution or zoom level.   Vector graphics are a complement, rather than an alternative, to bitmap graphics. Each has its own purpose and are useful for different kinds of things. Raster graphics tend to be better for photographs and some kinds of artistic drawings, whereas vectors are more suitable for design compositions, logos, images with text, technical illustrations, etc. Note that Inkscape can import and display bitmap images, too. An imported bitmap becomes yet another object in your vector graphics, and you can do with it everything you can do to other kinds of objects (move, transform, clip, etc.)   While Inkscape does not have all the features of the leading vector editors, the latest versions provide for a large portion of basic vector graphics editing capabilities. People report successfully using Inkscape in a lot of very different projects (web graphics, technical diagrams, icons, creative art, logos, maps).        For example, thousands of images on Wikipedia are created_with_Inkscape, as is the majority of the content on Openclipart many examples of Inkscape art can be seen here and here. The codebase is usable for real users, as authors believe that a tight iteration cycle between users and developers will give best results. You can start using Inkscape alongside your other tools now! Inkscape runs on multiple platforms: binary packages for Linux, Windows 2000/2003/XP (fully self-contained installer), and OSX (dmg package). Also, is known that Inkscape is successfully used on FreeBSD and other Unix-like operating systems. Note that Windows 98/ME is no longer supported. More about software, examples, screenshots, downloads and user community you can find here.