Inkscape

An Open Source vector graphics editor, with capabilities similar to Illustrator, CorelDraw, or Xara X, using the W3C standard Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) file format. Inkscape supports many advanced SVG features (markers, clones, alpha blending, etc.) and great care is taken in designing a streamlined interface. It is very easy to edit nodes, perform complex path operations, trace bitmaps and much more. We also aim to maintain a thriving user and developer community by using open, community-oriented development.

I am currently trying out Inkscape as a possible replacement for Illustrator and so far I must say I am very impressed.

Platforms: All

Download Inkscape

Skencil

Skencil is a Free Software interactive vector drawing appliction. Known to run on GNU/Linux and other UNIX-compatible systems, it is a flexible and powerful tool for illustrations, diagrams and other purposes. A somewhat unique (for a drawing program) feature of Skencil is that it is implemented almost completely in a very high-level, interpreted language, Python.

A few highlights of Skencil include:

• Bézier Curves
• Transformed text and images
• Bézier curves, rectangles and ellipses can be used as guides
• Gradient fills

Platforms: GNU/Unix

Download Karbon14

OpenOffice DRAW

As Karbon14 above, OpenOffice’s DRAW, that forms part of the OpenOffice.org package is an often overlooked application. “DRAW – from a quick sketch to a complex plan, DRAW gives you the tools to communicate with graphics and diagrams. With a maximum page size of 300cm by 300cm, DRAW is powerful tool for technical or general posters, etc.”

Platforms: All

Download OpenOffice DRAW

Sodipodi

Sodipodi is general vector illustrating application for Linux/Unix and Windows. It uses W3C SVG as native file and in-memory image format and can do many neat things. Sodipodi is not currently under development anymore but the code is still available from Sourceforge and if your needs are not great, then Sodipodi might just be the right fit for you.

Platforms: Linux, Unix, Windows

Download Sodipodi

If you are looking for some vector graphics that you can freely use and edit in these aplication you might want to look at the Open Clipart Library.