I really need a way to slow down my strokes. That is why the "mass" value is extremely useful when using the calligraphy tool.

The tool however creates too many nodes. For that reason I prefer to use the tool.

The tool does not have a "Mass" value. I really wish it id, so as to give me the control to slow down my stroke as I draw it.

The smooth value smooths it out after the fact and serves a completely different goal. The mass value gives control over the stroke that is specific. Smooth automatically generates a stroke that is usually not what I want and needs readjustment.

I believe that both can be used together in a great way. When my smooth is set to low and mass set to high - I would get a wonderfully precise smooth line that does have many nodes. But that line cound then be gradually cleaned up with ctrl+L

So please, add the "Mass" value to the tool!!

That sounds like an awesome idea!

Unfortunately, this is a users forum which very few developers participate in. To get the idea to developers, make a new wishlist bug report here: https://launchpad.net/inkscape

I agree, good idea. Make a feature request and post the link here, then we can "upvote" it...