easiest way to create a GIMP PATH with handles out

Question

I am a firm believer of GIMP, but sometimes find it hard to do things that seem to be simple. To create a path around a figure, I'd like to sprinkle some points and then move each point to the exact location, get the handles out, and adjust the curves. My problem is that it takes a LOT of time and effort to get all those handles out.

My work around is to use Edit mode to create points with handles already out. However, creating points in Edit mode only works between two points created earlier. So I start with creating a closed path with three points in Design Mode, without handles out, then add more points with the handles out on the initial path in Edit mode by holding down the Control key.

Is this a perverted way to create a path in GIMP? Is there a better way to create points with handles out?

Answer 1

When making a new path with the path tool, do not click, but drag to the wanted tangent direction (=keep the mouse button pressed as you draw). After some training you can draw the final path on the fly or at least reduce the needed editing time more than 50%.

Answer 2

Learn to use the Paths Tool as it is intended to be used. Click and drag each point as you create it. This will extend the Bézier handles. Drag the handle in the direction of the next curve.

It takes some practice, but it's quicker than what you are currently doing, and will only need a little tweaking when you've finished. Here's a quick example.

Edit: in order to answer accusations of "unfairness" in choosing a simple image to demonstrate the Pen Tool. The same techniques can be used for more complex photographic images. The only difference really is you will need more anchors and curves for more complex images.

For example

Answer 3

On a related note, if you want to move points around and you don't need curves, there's a checkbox in the Path tool options called Polygonal which allows you to quickly move around path anchors and ignore handles all together.