How do I convert raster to vector graphics in Inkscape?

[DEALUX]

I've been trying to convert some basic raster images that I made to vector using the tracing feature and I haven't had much success. It's actually quite terrible even at converting squares. Somehow the edges always end up bent and I can't seem to be able to find the right parameters to stop this from happening.

 

Here are two examples of what I'm trying to convert to vector.

 

This is a character of a font I'm creating.

 

This is supposed to be a logo basically.

 

 

As you can probably tell, both of these images contain basic shapes. Inkscape doesn't seem to be able to trace them properly, especially the slopy\angled parts that look like triangles. It ruins the shape of those the most but as I said above, it doesn't seem to be able to convert basic shapes like squares properly either. It always looks deformed.

So what am I supposed to do? Is there a way to tweak the parameters in order to convert the shapes flawlessly or is there another method of converting them that you would suggest? Re-drawing them manually doesn't seem like a viable option since you're not constrained by pixels and therefore you can make mistakes

Edited April 4, 2014 by Criѕtian

[Graven]

Tip #1. Do not trace basic shapes. It´s much easier to use rectangle, triangle, circle and other tools. I would create both of those from scratch. They won´t take much time and You are guaranteed to have perfect vector shapes.
This is not always the case when tracing, however those should be easy to trace too.

I´m gonna try to make this very simple, if You need to know something just ask.
The first one You must do from scratch, it´s so simple.

1. Import the A character to Inkscape. Hold ctrl and drag from corner to make it bigger (optional)
2. Switch to rectangle tool and create a rectangle, size being same as one of the vertical shapes in your character image. Another for the horizontal shapes.
3. Select both shapes. Menu: Path->object to path. Now You can do the 45 degree angles by using path node tool (F2). Select the nodes, use arrow button to move.

4. Duplicate and move to correct position by holding ctrl. For the horizontal bar, duplicate, mirror and move.
4. If You need that frame, create square without a fill and alter the stroke width.



The second image is little harder, and takes bit more effort. But it is just a triangle and rectangle. But here are Inkscape trace settings which gave me a good result with the 2k13 image.
The important part is to untick the smooth. Otherwise those tiny triangles get round.

Edited April 4, 2014 by Graven

[DEALUX]

Thanks.

 

I can definitely redraw everything but the shapes don't seem to snap to the grid so it's hard to position them properly. I checked the snap settings and they seem alright. How can I make the shapes snap exactly to the grid when I move them around?

Edited April 4, 2014 by Criѕtian

[Graven]

Try ticking on the "only snap the node closest to the pointer", and drag from corner of the shape.

I feel it´s more responsive this way. I do get it to snap but it is indeed worse than in some other editors. Small move of mouse and it´s off the guide.

 

edit: I would only use snapping to guides, I have disabled grid snapping from the right side toolbox.

 

But I don´t use much snapping. I´ve got used to dragging my shapes with holding control, using alt+arrows and object alignment tools.

Edited April 4, 2014 by Graven

[DEALUX]

It actually doesn't matter. It snaps perfectly when I draw the shapes, so as long as I position them properly when I draw them it will do the trick.

 

Thanks a lot.