Anyone know of a good vector software program that is half way decent that is also free? I want to see if I can do it before I spend a fortune on software. I realize there is alot of freeware out there but don't even have a clue what would even work right? Thought maybe some of you vectorian's out there might know. It just seems everything is going to vector and sell much better....

Inkscape and Drawplus I think are free.

I just dl'ed Xara Xtreem trial last night and I am loving it. It's only $89 or $85 if you buy it. Problem is it does not play well with Adobe...so no vectors for stock it seems. Rasters turn out good.

I was just looking at Inkscape as well as Drawplus....I believe Inkscape is a free software, but I think the Drawplus has to be registered so I don't know if it is still free. The Inkscape has alot of tutorials with it and it appears to be pretty good software. They say it is alot like Adobe Illustrator...

Welcome to the Vector Side !
Absolutely, give it a try and do it now, while vectors are still in demand

Inkscape is free, a lot of contributors use it, but I think there's a problem. Something to do with gradients. Can't use them; while saving as EPS (you'll learn all about that), Inkscape rasterizes gradients.
Or something similar.
I'm not sure, better to ask people who use it.
But it doesn't really matter, gradients are not vital. You'll still be able to create beautiful illustrations without them.

Good luck and tell us how you get on!

Thanks Eireann.....I can learn pretty fast.....so I think.. anyway from looking at their website it appears they are still getting the kinks out....

Hi Donding,
well done, this is the first step.
I would love to be able to tell you that learning how to master vectors only takes a few hours. Unfortunately it's not true.
You've got a long way ahead of you, but if you like what you're doing and never give up, you'll get there.
1. Look for tutorials on the net, even if they're for Illustrator. Inkscape can't be that different.
2. Start simple. Don't try to draw complicated shapes with the pen tool just yet. It's very difficult to judge the right location for your anchor points. Use simple shapes and learn how to stack them up together.
Easter is around the corner.
What about a few Easter eggs? A flower or two? Arrange them in a pretty border and you're ready to go.
Don't forget to close all your shapes!
There's a lot to learn but if you take it easy on yourself, you'll get there. The creation of a masterpiece
Show us your first illustration, and if in trouble don't hesitate to ask for help. We're here
Best of luck,