SVG Join Paths Error / SOLVED!

Easel
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A shout-out to Phil DeJarnett for a life-saving tip that has eluded me for ages. This is a simple workaround that results in conversion of unjoined paths to joined paths, entirely within Easel. See:

https://forum.easel.com/t/missing-cut-path-options/159245/2?u=michaelenagy

I have struggled with this for quite a while, and web searches were pretty worthless. This now allows me to do drawings in InkScape and import the SVG’s into Easel successfully at last. Whoo-hoo!

Michael Nagy

2 Likes
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Here is a solution using Inkscape:

:magnifying_glass_tilted_left: How to Detect Open Polylines in Inkscape

:compass: 1. Use the Node Tool to Reveal Open Ends

Open paths always have two end nodes that are not connected. Inkscape visually marks them:

  • Select the object(s)

  • Press F2 (Node Tool)

  • Look for:

    • Square nodes → end nodes (possible open ends)

    • Round nodes → internal nodes

    • A dashed outline → indicates the path is open

This is the most direct way to visually confirm open paths.

:test_tube: 2. Use “Select Same → Object Type” to Gather All Paths

If your file has hundreds of paths (common in CNC or laser work):

  1. Edit → Select Same → Object Type
    This selects all paths at once.

  2. Switch to the Node Tool (F2)
    Now all nodes for all paths are visible.

  3. Zoom in and look for square end nodes—these indicate open paths.

This doesn’t automatically isolate only the open ones, but it makes them easy to spot.

:toolbox: 3. Try Closing All Paths at Once (Useful for CNC/Laser Prep)

If your goal is simply to ensure everything is closed:

  1. Select all paths

  2. Press F2

  3. Ctrl+A (Select all nodes)

  4. Click “Join selected end nodes with a segment” in the Node Tool toolbar

:warning: Important: This method can sometimes join the wrong nodes if paths are close together. Users on Reddit warn that it may connect unrelated paths.

Use this only when paths are well separated or when you visually verify the results.

:puzzle_piece: 4. Use Extensions (Optional)

Some Inkscape extensions (third‑party) can:

  • Highlight open paths

  • List open paths

  • Automatically close them

If you want, I can recommend specific extensions and installation steps.

:compass: 5. Exporting to CNC? Watch Out for Splines vs. Polylines

If your end goal is CNC cutting, note:

  • Inkscape often exports splines, not polylines, in DXF.

  • Some CAM software rejects splines or treats them as open.

Users often convert DXF via LibreCAD or QCAD to force polylines.

If you want, I can walk you through a clean CNC‑safe export workflow.