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Figma revolutionized the world of interface design (UI/UX) by offering a collaborative, intuitive and powerful solution. A tool that allows you to create interactive prototypes. Are you a beginner or even an experienced designer? This comprehensive tutorial will guide you step-by-step in mastering Figma, from the basics to advanced techniques.
In this guide, you'll see and learn:
Note that this guide is for beginners as well as experienced designers who want to optimize their workflow with Figma. If you are:
Before diving into specific features, it's essential to fully understand How to get started with Figma. So in this first part, we will guide you through the installation and discovery of the interface, crucial steps to work effectively.
Figma is accessible directly from your browser (Chrome, Firefox) or via the desktop application.
Enrollment:
The decrypted interface:
Scalapp's trick? Configure your keyboard shortcuts (like Ctrl + Alt + K for the “Scale” tool) to increase productivity.
Now that you know the interface, let's move on to the setting up your first project. This step is crucial to ensure the consistency of your designs and facilitate collaborative work.
Before you start designing, set up your file correctly:
You have now acquired the basics. Let's then explore the features that make Figma the preferred tool for UI/UX designers. This section will show you how to transform your static mockups In real interactive prototypes.
Before prototyping, you have to master The fundamentals of interface design. Figma offers all the tools you need to create professional models.
To create a wireframe:
Advanced customization:
Practical case: design a clickable button with hover effect (color change on hover).
Going from static design to interactive prototypes is one of Figma's strengths. Let's see how to bring your creations to life.
Transform your models into functional prototypes:
Test on mobile:
Teamwork is at the heart of Figma. Let's find out how to collaborate effectively with colleagues and customers.
Figma shines with its collaborative functions:
Figma vs FigJam
Figma is perfect for UI/UX design, prototypes, and reusable components.
FigJam is the right option for brainstorming, diagrams, and virtual post-its.
For those who want to go further, Figma offers advanced features that make all the difference on professional projects. These techniques are regularly used by agencies like us to deliver high quality designs.
Organization and consistency are essential in any design project. Let's see how Figma makes this management easier.
Optimize your workflow with:
For example, at Scalapp, we maintain a shared library for our projects. This allows us to save 30% of time on each new design.
The real power of Figma lies in its plugin ecosystem. Here are the ones that are really changing the game.
Utility Extension
Content Reel filling in with false realistic data
Lottie Files integrates JSON animations
Wireframe fast low-fidelity mockups
You can download them via Resources - plugins.
The handoff phase between designers and developers is crucial. Let's see how Figma makes this transition easy.
Last step: transmitting the design to developers:
Now let's put everything we've learned into practice with a concrete example. This practical case uses the methodology used by our designer for our customers' projects.
Result? A prototype ready to be sent for development!
Even the best designers can fall in some pitfalls using Figma. Here are the most common mistakes and their solutions:
Error: use copies of items instead of creating reusable components.
Solution: Use components and variants to ensure consistency and facilitate global updates.
Error: Manually place the elements, which makes it difficult to adapt to different screens.
Solution: activate Auto Layout to make your designs flexible and responsive.
Error: name your layers generically (Frame 1, Rectangle 2...), which makes the file unreadable.
Solution: rename your layers explicitly and use groups and sections.
Error: do not use Layout Grids, which results in a disorganized design.
Solution: Activate grids and columns from the start to structure your layout.
Error: create fixed designs that do not adapt to different resolutions.
Solution: use constraints and Auto Layouts for adaptive interfaces.
Basic tools
Editing and layout
Alignment and Auto Layout
Collaboration and navigation
You now master Figma like a pro! To summarize:
You needa custom design? Know that Scalapp can turn your ideas into professional interfaces.
Is Figma better than Adobe XD?
Yes for real-time collaboration and the plugin ecosystem.
Can I animate micro-interactions?
Yes, with Smart Animate or Lottie plugins.
How do I share a prototype?
Via Share - Copy Link (“View Only” or “Can Edit” settings).
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