Figma
Figma is a cloud-based interface design tool that allows designers to collaborate in real-time. Unlike traditional design software which is typically installed on individual machines, Figma operates fully in the browser, ensuring that team members can access, edit, and comment on design files from anywhere. Figma is notable for its vector design tools, prototyping capabilities, and user-friendly interface. Additionally, its collaborative nature makes it especially appealing to teams, as multiple users can simultaneously work on a design, view changes live, and receive instant feedback. As a versatile tool, Figma is used for a range of purposes from user interface and user experience design to wireframing and creating design systems.
Module 1: Figma Basics
Introduction to Figma
Figma is a cloud-based design tool that allows for real-time collaboration. It's used for UI/UX design, prototyping, and more. Being web-based, it works across platforms and requires no software installation.
Understanding the Interface
Figma's workspace includes the canvas, layers panel, properties panel, and the top menu. The layers panel helps organize design elements, while the properties panel allows for detailed adjustments of selected items.
Navigating the Canvas
The canvas is the primary workspace in Figma. You can zoom, pan, and manage frames (similar to artboards in other design tools) on the canvas.
Setting Up a New Project
Learn how to create new design files, set up frames for different device sizes, and understand the difference between files and projects.
Module 2: Shapes and Layers
Drawing Basic Shapes
Figma offers tools for creating rectangles, ellipses, polygons, and more. These basic shapes can be combined and manipulated to create more complex designs.
Layer Management
Layers in Figma can be rearranged, grouped, locked, and renamed. Mastering layer hierarchy and organization is essential for efficient design.
Vector Networks
Figma’s vector tool allows designers to create and edit paths directly, making it versatile for custom shapes and icons.
Boolean Operations
Combine, subtract, intersect, or exclude overlapping shapes using Boolean operations to create new custom shapes and design elements.
Module 3: Styling and Components
Applying Color and Gradient
Learn how to apply solid colors, linear gradients, and radial gradients to objects. Also, understand how to use the color picker and manage color styles.
Typography in Figma
Explore text tools, adjust font properties, and manage text styles to ensure consistency across your designs.
Creating and Using Components
Components are reusable design elements in Figma. Understand how to create master components, use instances, and override properties in instances.
Interactive Components and Variants
Dive into creating components with different states and interactions, allowing for more dynamic and interactive prototypes.
Module 4: Prototyping and Collaboration
Creating Interactive Prototypes
Link frames together to simulate user flows, add interactions, and test your designs in real-time.
Real-time Collaboration
Figma's collaborative nature allows multiple users to work on the same file simultaneously. Explore commenting, co-editing, and sharing files.
Exporting and Handoff
Understand how to export assets in various formats and share interactive prototypes. Also, delve into the 'Inspect' mode for developers to gather necessary design specifications.
Using Figma Plugins
Enhance Figma's functionality with plugins. Discover how to install and use popular plugins to streamline your workflow.