Variants and Instances in Figma

Key Concepts

• Variants
• Instances
• Creating Variants
• Modifying Instances
• Using Variants and Instances

Variants

Variants in Figma are different states or versions of a component that can be easily switched between. Each variant represents a different configuration of the component, such as different colors, sizes, or states (e.g., active, hover, disabled). Variants allow designers to create a flexible and reusable set of options for a component.

Think of variants as different outfits for a character. Just as a character can wear different outfits for different occasions, a component can have different variants for different use cases.

Instances

Instances in Figma are individual copies of a component that can be placed in a design. Instances inherit the properties of the component but can be modified independently. Instances allow designers to reuse components while maintaining consistency and making it easy to update all instances if the component changes.

Consider instances as multiple copies of a blueprint. Just as multiple buildings can be constructed from the same blueprint, multiple instances of a component can be placed in a design, each with its own unique modifications.

Creating Variants

Creating variants in Figma involves defining different states or configurations for a component. This can be done by duplicating the component and modifying its properties to create different versions. Once created, variants can be organized and managed in the Assets panel for easy access and reuse.

Think of creating variants as designing different prototypes for a product. Just as a product can have multiple prototypes for testing, a component can have multiple variants for different scenarios.

Modifying Instances

Modifying instances in Figma allows designers to make changes to individual instances without affecting the original component or other instances. This can be done by selecting the instance and adjusting its properties in the right-hand panel. Modifying instances provides flexibility and customization within a design.

Consider modifying instances as customizing a prefabricated house. Just as a house can be customized with different paint colors and fixtures, instances can be customized with different properties while still maintaining the core structure of the component.

Using Variants and Instances

Using variants and instances in Figma involves selecting the appropriate variant for a specific use case and placing it as an instance in the design. This approach ensures consistency and efficiency, as designers can easily switch between variants and modify instances as needed. Using variants and instances is particularly useful for creating complex designs with multiple components.

Think of using variants and instances as assembling a kit of parts. Just as a kit allows you to build different models with the same parts, variants and instances allow you to create different designs with the same components, ensuring consistency and flexibility.

Examples and Analogies

Imagine designing a button component with different states (e.g., default, hover, pressed). By creating variants for each state, you can easily switch between them when placing instances in your design. This ensures that all buttons maintain a consistent look and feel while providing visual feedback for user interactions.

Consider designing a form with multiple input fields. By creating a component for input fields and using instances for each field, you can ensure consistency in design and functionality. If you need to update the input field design, you can modify the component, and all instances will automatically reflect the changes.