Combine elipses to create the outline of a bowling pin, then use gradients to create the shadowing effect for that new object.
A good explanation on snapping(connecting) nodes is also introduced in this tutorial.
Use rotation and duplicates to easily make designs like snowflakes and nuclear symbols. To get the degrees measurement for a snowflake with 6 points, you divide 360 by 6 (which equals 60). You divide into 360 because there are 360 degrees in a circle.
This is a different and unique way to turn text into an Path, and draw it along a curved line using the pencil or pen tools. The technique can also be used with any other shape, like stars, spirals, or your own creation.
Mechanical gear shapes can be created easily in Inkscape. This tutorial will show you how, and give you an idea on applying filters to make the finished design look old and worn.
Link to Inkscape Filter Guide: http://www.littlewebhut.com/inkscape/graphics_filter_guide/
