Hello everyone. I tried to find some info that pertained to the issue I'm having but couldn't find anything, so I hope i'm not creating a duplicate thread. But anyways, here goes.

So basically I need to create a path that is derived from another path in such a way that they "nest". What I need to do is create a router template so that I can accurately and repeatably cut the same shape in a work piece. Basically what I need is a way to make two curved paths equidistant (1/4 inch) along their entire lengths.

The process would go something like this:

1. Take a path (the shape I want to end up with).

2. Use Inkscape to create a larger (not scaled) version.

3. Cut a template with pattern created.

4. Run pencil inside of washer (analogous to router with guide bushing) around the inside of the template.

What I want is the line created in step 4 to be the same as the path referred to in step 1.

Originally I tried to do this by increasing the stroke thickness to 1/2 inch in fill and stroke. Everything seemed to be going well but when I actually made a cut with the template everything was wonky. And no, the issue is not rounded corners with a radius equal to the distance of the pencil (or router bit) I anticipate this problem and created ways to avoid it. So I did some research and am wondering about the outset, dynamic offset, and linked offset. Which would be the best for what I am trying to do?

Anyways I hope i didn't ramble too much and what I said is at least halfway comprehensible.

As a closing thought, is it possible that the method I used should have worked and I just made a mistake somewhere else in the process?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Welcome aboard!

Strokes don't cut, but the paths they are at.
If you want to perform somekind of cutting with the strokes, you can either convert the strokes to paths by pressing Ctrl+Alt+C, or,
add a white fill and a black stroke colour to the "cut object", and set it as a mask for the other one.

Not entirely sure if I got the idea right of your process though but maybe this can help.

Hi.

It is easy to make router templates for guide bushing routing using Inkscape.

1. Create the path you want to cut along.
2. Use the path - outset to set the path that your guide bushing has to follow.

To set the outset distance go to preferences - CTRL + SHIFT + P



For the dev version:


To calculate the offset : (Bushing Diameter - Cutter Diameter) / 2

Click Image for larger version.
Better example: http://www.leevalley.com/en/newsletters/Woodworking/1/4/article3-3.htm
(David - Please edit the subject title in the original post with correct spelling of template - Try a google search for Inkscape AND teplate)
Good Luck - Happy Routing!
RGDS Ragnar

Ok, Thanks. That's exactly what I was looking for.