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What are constraints in Figma?

Last updated on September 24, 2022 @ 6:42 pm

In Figma, constraints are used to enforce a specific shape or behavior for a given element. A constraint can be a simple shape, like a circle, or a more complex rule, like requiring a given text box to be at least 50 characters wide.

Once a constraint has been set, it can be applied to any element in the document. To apply a constraint, simply select the desired element and click the “Constraints” button.

PRO TIP: If you are not careful, constraints in Figma can mess up your design. Make sure to use them sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.

From there, select the constraint you want to apply and click the “Apply” button.

Once a constraint has been applied, it will appear in the “Constraints” tab of the element’s Properties panel. To modify the constraint, simply click on it and enter the new value in the “Constraint” field.

Finally, it’s worth noting that constraints are not activated automatically. You must explicitly enable them by selecting the “Constraints” checkbox in the “Document Layout” section of the “Element Properties” panel.

Dale Leydon

Dale Leydon

Sysadmin turned Javascript developer. Owner of 20+ apps graveyard, and a couple of successful ones.