How can I convert a path to a shape in Inkscape?

Question

This is a follow-up to my earlier question, where I learned that one can trace the edge of a vector image by using a union if all the parts are shapes.

However, while I found instructions for converting a shape to a path, I did not find any instructions for the reverse operation.

How can I convert a path to a shape, so I can perform a union?

Edit: For clarification, this is the svg I am trying to trace the outside boundary of.

Update: I first ungrouped, and then did Object to Path. When I subsequently try to perform Path->Union, I get the error

One of the objects is not a path. Cannot perform boolean operation.

Update2: It turned out I had nested groups. After ungrouping the nested groups, I was able to do a Path -> Union. However, this operation had the effect of simply destroying my image and leaving nothing, which was not the intended effect.

Answer 1

As your question does not make sense to me otherwise, I assume that you have something like an object to which Stroke to Path has been applied (see image below) and you want to convert it to a single path.

I further assume that you are only interested in the outline of this object, i.e., the outermost circle in the above example, and not the original line used to create this object (which would be more difficult to reconstruct).

The probably most simple ways to achieve this are:

• Path → break apart and remove the inner object.
• Path → break apart and path → union.

Answer 2

If you want to trace the outside boundary of your svg, all element must be path: ungroup all and convert to path, but in your svg there are linked offset and nested group, so:

• first convert to path (select all and Shift+Ctrl+C or Path > Object to path)
• and then Ungroup all (select all and Shift+Ctrl+G) repeatedly until inkscape say "no groups to ungroup"
• now you can Path>Union.

If union destroy your object you can try to combine only two elements, then combine the result with other element and so on...

Answer 3

A variation of @Wrzlprmft's answer worked for me:

• Create a rectangle bigger than the object you want to work with.
• Covert the rectangle to a Path (Path -> Object to Path)
• Place the rectangle / path behind the object you want to work with.
• Select the rectangle and then select the object you want to work with.
• Use Path -> Difference to have your object "cut out" of the rectangle.
• Use Path -> Break Apart to get the individual pieces as separate paths.
• Profit

Answer 4

I experimented with the uploaded file and achieved the desired result as follows:

• select everything, then deselect the "im" part.
• do Path > Union. All selected paths are unified into one path.
• select the "im" and do Path > Object to Path, then Object > Ungroup four times consecutively
• now shift-select the other object (unified in step 2), so that again everything is selected in the drawing and do Path > Union.