Can GIMP save files as .pdf or .ai?

[kizor]

My friend wanted me to design something for him, but since I didn't have photoshop I thought GIMP would do.

However he said he needs the file as .pdf or .ai but I can't seem to be able to save as either! :confused:

Am I going to have to download Photoshop and do it through that? :(

[smartboyathome]

Gimp itself does not save to PDF, but you can save it as an image and then import it to OpenOffice.org draw. .ai is a file for illustrator, which is a vector graphics program, and isn't compatible with GIMP (which is a bitmapping program). If I remember correctly, Photoshop does not save as .ai either (for the same reason as stated before). If you would like a program that can save files as .ai, use Inkscape.

[kizor]

Thanks, I try the open office method !

[vexorian]

you could try a PDF printer as well.

[bakermiller]

you ca also use scribus to export .pdf

[Half-Left]

Gimp itself does not save to PDF, but you can save it as an image and then import it to OpenOffice.org draw. .ai is a file for illustrator, which is a vector graphics program, and isn't compatible with GIMP (which is a bitmapping program). If I remember correctly, Photoshop does not save as .ai either (for the same reason as stated before). If you would like a program that can save files as .ai, use Inkscape.

Both vector graphics and pixmap graphics apps are compatible with each other. The GIMP can import vectors and inkscape can import pixmaps. The idea is that you can composite your SVG done in inkscape with something done in GIMP.

Saving files is like you said so your correct.

[graigsmith]

Inkscape can save adobe illustrator files that are version 8.0

[bakermiller]

Both vector graphics and pixmap graphics apps are compatible with each other. The GIMP can import vectors and inkscape can import pixmaps. The idea is that you can composite your SVG done in inkscape with something done in GIMP.

Saving files is like you said so your correct.

...Yes, but importing vectors in gimp will turn ur vectors into bitmaps:), with no turning back to vectors:) so you are better off compositing your vectors and bitmaps in a compositor app like scribus ( which is the equivalent of indesign) and latter export it as .pdf.


....anyways thats what i do:)

[Alexander Grundner]

you could try a PDF printer as well.

I agree with vexorian. The easiest way to get a PDF file from GIMP is to use the print function and then select the PDF option. Works for me :)

[transmogrifox]

I agree with vexorian. The easiest way to get a PDF file from GIMP is to use the print function and then select the PDF option. Works for me :)

+1 there. Check out cups-pdf printer if you don't already have it installed and configured.

[kayosiii]

You won't see any real advantage in exporting files from the gimp as the gimp doesn't store a lot of information as vectors except perhaps the text and paths.

The file format that will let you share the most possible information between Gimp and AI is to save from gimp as a Photoshop PSD file.

If you want a more vector friendly result. I suggest using Inkscape along side the gimp. You can drag and drop layers straight from the gimp into inkscape. and I believe that illustrator can import svg (this will probably get the most information between the two programs, otherwise try some of the other options).

[omarkutty]

I have been trying the print method, but when I press print nothing happens.
I'm clearly missing a step.
Can anyone help?

[alex.rayu]

No, it cant. GIMP is mostly RASTER editor. AI is expressely VECTOR.
If you want vector, use Inkscape - it's very powerful. If you want PDF, use Open Office - it saves as PDF quite ably. I think I saw Inkscape export to AI, actually, and AI opens Inkscapes's SVG format.

[Samhain13]

I have been trying the print method, but when I press print nothing happens.
I'm clearly missing a step.
Can anyone help?

Check out your home folder, if it has a PDF folder in there, look into it.