Creating layered svg files using Inkscape

Layered svg files can be used in SCAL 2.0 to take advantage of the layer and ungroup features in that program, or to hide working parts of a file that you want to save for future use but don’t want to cut (this can be used in either of the SCAL programs).  You can create your design elements all on one layer and then move them to different layers, or create each element right on its own layer.  It is really just personal preference, but if you are going to have more than a couple of layers you will probably want to create your design right on the new layers.  I will start on one layer and move the elements to new layers.

1. Create your design elements.
2. From the menu select Layer/Layers (or control shift L) to bring up the layers dialog box.
   
3. Click on the + button at the top of the layer dialog box.  A new dialog box will appear.
   
4. Type a name for the layer in the Add Layer box.  You can also choose if you want the layer above or below your current layer.  Click “Add”.
5. Select the object or objects that  you want to move to the new layer.  From the menu select Layer/Move selection to layer above/below (shift page up or shift page down).  You can also select the objects you want to move and use copy or cut (Control C, Control X) then select the new layer and use paste (Control V).
   
6. If you don’t want the layer to cut, close the eye next to the layer name.  You can do this either in the Layer dialog box or next to the layer name at the bottom of the Inkscape window.
7. You can also “lock” the layer so that no changes can be made until it is unlocked.  Do this  by clicking on the lock next to the layer name in either location.