Getting Started with Figma

Introduction

• Presenter: Jesse Showalter
• Topic: Overview of Figma, a design software for collaboration, prototyping, and digital design
• Target Audience: Web designers, UI designers, anyone interested in digital design
• Format: Browser-based, available on Windows, Mac, Linux

Key Features of Figma

• Design, prototype, and gather feedback all in one place
• Browser-based: Accessible from anywhere
• Collaboration: Multiple users can work together in real-time

Starting with Figma

1. Visit figma.com: Download and explore features.
2. Dashboard Overview: Recent projects, account settings, drafts, deleted files, and teams.
3. File Management:
   • Create new files
   • Import Sketch files
   • Save files as .figma files
   • Organize files into projects

Interface Overview

• Dashboard: Access all projects and settings.
• File Management: Create, import, and organize files.
• Main Interface:
  • Left Panel: Pages and layers section
  • Top Menu: Tools for moving, scaling, framing, slicing, shapes, pen, pencil, text, comments
  • Shape Tools: Rectangles, lines, arrows, ellipses, polygons, stars, image insertion
  • Layers Panel: Manage layers as elements are added
  • Artboard: Work area for design elements
• Properties Panel: Alignment, positioning, border radius, constraints, blending modes, fills, strokes, effects, export settings
• Prototype and Code Tabs: Additional functionality for interaction design and code generation

Components in Figma

• Creating Components: Reusable design elements
  • Component vs. Instance: Main component vs. copies (instances)
  • Manipulating Components: Editing and deleting components

Tools and Features

• Shape Manipulation: Using rulers, guides, grids, and layers
• Masking and Boolean Operations: Union, subtract, intersect, exclude, flatten shapes
• Constraints: Make elements responsive to artboard size changes
• Pen Tool: Create custom shapes and Bezier curves
• Commenting: Built-in system for feedback and discussion

Prototyping

• Adding Interactions: Link elements to create interactive prototypes
• Sharing Prototypes: View and share dynamic previews

Exporting and Code Generation

• Export Options: Individual elements, .figma files
• Code Tab: View CSS, iOS, Android code for designs

Conclusion

• Summary: Overview of the basics of Figma, from interface navigation to creating responsive designs, prototyping, and exporting.
• Interactivity: Encouraged viewers to ask questions and engage with the video content