Inkpad supports paths, compound paths, text, images, groups, masks, gradient fills, and an unlimited number of layers.

Suitable for: KS2/KS3Price: FREE

A vector-based graphic is an infinitely scalable image that doesn’t lose its quality — unlike a photograph that is created with pixels. Vector artwork also gives you an extra level of precision that you don’t get with standard drawing apps, such as snapping to a grid or aligning shapes with each other.

What are the benefits of a vector app?

• Smooth curves and shapes can be achieved quickly and easily.
• Your work can be re-sized to fit a small business card or a giant billboard without getting blurry or pixelated.
• Each element in a vector design can be selected and edited individually.

Inkpad was built solely for the iPad and it’s a great introduction to vector drawing. It doesn’t overwhelm you with unnecessary tools and all the menus are clearly labelled. The best way to learn an app like Inkpad is to try out all the features and see what they do. If you’re still confused, there’s a help section on the main menu that explains everything in detail.

When you start a new document in Inkpad you’ll first want to open the settings and tailor the app to your preferences. Here you can choose whether you want elements to snap together or if you’d like a grid as a background guide. The grid is especially handy as you can snap elements to it and keep everything aligned, but it all depends on what you’re going to create.

It helps if you can get into the habit of creating layers. This will allow you so much flexibility in the future if you make a mistake or if your drawing is highly detailed. It also gives you the option of hiding or locking specific layers.

Inkpad works very similarly to the desktop app Adobe Illustrator (that costs around £20 a month) so it’s surprising to see that it doesn’t cost anything! Definitely one to add to your download queue.

Download on the App Store