Master Components in Figma
Key Concepts
- Understanding Master Components
- Creating Master Components
- Using Master Components
- Updating Master Components
- Creating Variants
1. Understanding Master Components
Master Components in Figma are reusable design elements that serve as the primary template for creating instances. These components ensure consistency across your design by allowing you to make changes to the master component, which automatically updates all instances derived from it.
Think of a master component as a blueprint for a house. Just as a blueprint defines the structure and layout of a house, a master component defines the structure and appearance of a design element. Any changes to the blueprint (master component) will be reflected in all houses (instances) built from it.
2. Creating Master Components
To create a master component, select the design element you want to reuse, such as a button or card. Right-click on the element and choose "Create Component" from the context menu. This will convert the selected element into a master component, which you can then use throughout your design.
Imagine creating a master component as designing a LEGO block. Once you design the block (master component), you can use it to build various structures (instances) without having to redesign the block each time.
3. Using Master Components
Using master components involves creating instances of the master component. To do this, drag the master component from the Assets panel onto your canvas. Each instance will inherit the properties of the master component, ensuring consistency across your design.
Think of using master components as assembling LEGO structures. Each structure (instance) is built using the same block (master component), ensuring that all structures have a consistent look and feel.
4. Updating Master Components
Updating a master component allows you to make changes that will be reflected in all instances. To update a master component, double-click on any instance to enter the component editing mode. Make the necessary changes and exit the mode. All instances will automatically update to reflect the changes.
Imagine updating a master component as revising a blueprint. Any changes to the blueprint (master component) will be applied to all houses (instances) built from it, ensuring that all houses are updated with the latest design.
5. Creating Variants
Variants are different states or versions of a master component. To create a variant, select the master component and click on the "+" icon next to "Variants" in the right-hand panel. You can then customize the variant while keeping the core structure of the master component intact.
Think of creating variants as designing different styles of a LEGO block. Each style (variant) is based on the same block (master component) but has unique features, allowing you to create diverse structures (instances) using the same foundational block.