Craft Edge

I have trouble doing pattern on a path on non round objects as the top and bottom or where the points are on a heart for instance get distorted. How can I fix this? Or is there a better way?

Also along the same lines whats the best way to make a border?

Inkscape has problems with pattern on Path with sharp corners. The easiest work-around for hearts is to either create your own with two separate lines, or use the node tool and break the path at the top and bottom. Then you should be able to use either Text on Path or Pattern along Path with no problems. You might need to use Path/Reverse if your object along Path is direction sensitive.

If your border is along a straight line, I usually stamp the number of repetitions that I want and then use the alignment tools.

Thanks for another great tip, Heather!
Another thing I do is play with the settings. One of them (can't remember exactly what it's called) offsets the text from the path and if you play with that and the kerning you can sometimes find a combination that makes the text look right. Some fonts also work better than others.

Heather, you need to write a book, Inkscape for Dummies. I learn so much from your posts. I can do a lot in Inkscape but always end up doing it the hard way. You know the use of so many more buttons,etc in Inkscape that for the most part, I didn't even know they were there or what to do with them. Especially in PATH features. I rarely use OBJECTS except to flip something and never use EFFECTS. Under the PATHS option, when do you use Union instead of Combine? I know you use Combine when you have broken apart a file and want to put it back together. sometimes when I have used Union, the entire file disappears. How about a lesson on each of the options under each option in plain English?