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How Do You Animate a Rotation in Figma?

Last updated on January 18, 2023 @ 12:33 pm

There are a few different ways that you can animate a rotation in Figma. The simplest way is to adjust the angle of the object that you want to rotate and then to set the Animation as ‘Smart Animate‘.

In this example, we will rotate the star icon in the middle to 5 different angles. As we click on each number, the star should rotate and the blue pointer should point to the number that was selected.

To get started, first create 4 copies of the original frame.

NOTE: The number of copies you will create will depend on the number of choices that you want to rotate to.

From there, set the angle of the star on each frame in increments of 72 degrees (360 degrees of full rotation divided by 5) starting from zero degrees for Frame 1. In this case, follow the angle settings below:

Frame 2 (blue pointer to number 2): -72 degrees

Frame 3 (blue pointer to number 3): -144 degrees

Frame 4 (blue pointer to number 4): 144 degrees

Frame 5 (blue pointer to number 5): 72 degrees

NOTE: The increment depends upon the rotation you would like to apply in your design. For example, if you only have 3 choices to rotate to, divide 360 degrees by 3 and the increment for each rotation should be 120 degrees.

Now let’s set up the connections in our prototype to make a rotation animation. To do this, first, select the Prototype tab on the right menu, then hover your cursor over the number “2” in Frame 1 until a plus icon appears. Click on this then connect it to Frame 2 (where the blue pointer is pointing to the number “2”).

PRO TIP: This article discusses the procedures for making a rotation animation in Figma. The steps can be tricky and might take some time. If you are not familiar with Figma, we recommend seeking the assistance of a professional.

In the Interaction details window, select “On click” and “Smart animate” from the options.

Do the same with the other numbers and interconnect the frames with each other. Make it in such a way that when you click on a number in a specific frame, the star will rotate to that number. The final connections should look something like this.

Once done, click on the “Play” button in the upper-right corner to see a preview of your design.

Now you know how to make a smooth rotation animation!

 

Conclusion:

Using the ‘Smart Animate’ option is really helpful if you want more control over how your final animation looks. Adjusting the angle of the object that you want to rotate accurately also helps with smoother animations.

Madison Geldart

Madison Geldart

Cloud infrastructure engineer and tech mess solver.