You can add animated icons to Figma by exporting both a static SVG and an animated GIF from a library like Lordicon, then combining them within your Figma design.
Adding animation to your Figma prototypes or designs can significantly enhance user engagement and clarity. While Figma primarily works with static assets, you can incorporate animated elements like icons using GIF formats, often layered strategically with static versions for the best results.
Libraries such as Lordicon offer a vast collection of animated icons specifically designed for digital products. The process generally involves preparing the icon in the library, exporting it in the necessary formats, and then importing and arranging these files within Figma.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on the Lordicon library, as detailed in their documentation:
Preparing Your Animated Icon
Before bringing your icon into Figma, you'll typically customize it in the icon library's interface.
- Select an Animated Icon: Browse the library (like Lordicon) and choose the animated icon that fits your design needs.
- Customize Icon Properties: Most libraries allow you to adjust various aspects of the icon to match your brand or design system. This might include:
- Adjust Icon Color: Change the main color of the icon.
- Select Animation Type: Choose from different animation styles or speeds if available.
- Set Stroke Width: Modify the thickness of the icon's lines.
Exporting Formats for Figma
To successfully add an animated icon to Figma, you need both a static and an animated version. This is because Figma handles static SVG vectors differently than raster-based GIFs.
- Static SVG: Provides sharp, scalable lines for the icon's appearance when not animating.
- Animated GIF: Contains the sequence of frames that creates the animation effect.
Based on the reference, you need to:
- Download Icon as Static SVG: Get the vector version of the icon.
- Download Icon as Animated GIF: Ensure it has a transparent background for seamless integration into your design.
Why use both?
Layering a GIF over a static SVG allows the SVG to be the primary layer for crispness and scalability when the animation isn't playing, while the GIF provides the motion when needed, particularly useful in prototyping tools.
| Format | Purpose in Figma | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Static SVG | Base layer for clarity & scale | Vector, scalable, small file | No animation |
| Animated GIF | Provides the animation | Supports motion | Raster, can be pixelated, larger file |
Importing and Arranging in Figma
Once you have your two icon files, you can bring them into your Figma project.
- Import Icons into Figma: Drag and drop both the downloaded static SVG and animated GIF files directly into your Figma canvas or use the "Place image/video" option from the menu.
- Ensure Consistent Sizing: In Figma, select both imported layers and make sure they are exactly the same size. This is crucial for the GIF to perfectly align with the static SVG.
- Layer the GIF: Drag the GIF format layer into the static SVG icon group or frame. This places the animated version directly on top of the static one.
By following these steps, you effectively combine the high fidelity of a static SVG with the dynamic motion of a GIF within your Figma file, providing a more engaging user interface element. For specific details regarding the Lordicon library, you can refer to their Figma documentation.
