You can create a table in Figma by using the Auto Layout feature. First, you need to create a cell with content and add a layout to it, adjusting the constraints and padding. Next, duplicate the cell as many times as you need in the result and add an auto layout to the group. Create multiple copies of the row and apply auto layout to the group of elements you have.
Hi! My name is Yana, and when I use Figma, not only do I create graphic designs but also graphic data such as tables and charts. I know how challenging it can be to make a table and keep your information organized, especially if it’s your first time.
In this article, I will show you a couple of ways to create a table in Figma, as well as share some tips and tricks along the way.
Let’s dive in.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Remember to keep an eye on constraints and the resizing settings of the cells and rows in order for your table to respond accordingly.
- The quickest way to transfer the information in CSV format into your design project is by using plugins from the Figma community.
- If you work with tables frequently, consider creating a component for the table cell and rows to save time.
How to Create a Table in Figma
A table is a great design element that can keep your information organized. But it can be hard to create one, especially if it needs to be customized, such as adding icons, shapes, and other design elements.
Below, you can find two ways to create a simple table in Figma: using a plugin or the auto layout feature.
Method #1. Using the Table Generator Plugin
This plugin is great and loved by many designers because it makes working with tables in Figma more simple. It allows you to insert your data in the CSV format so you don’t need to enter it manually, making it the perfect choice to transfer data into Figma design.
The Table Generator plugin allows you to adjust the table, which is convenient. Below is the step by step process of how to use this plugin.
Step 1. Install the Table Generator Plugin from the Figma Community. You can find it in the Resources tab in the top menu. Next, hit the Run button to create your first table.
Step 2. In the newly opened window, you can add the data in the CSV format (comma-separated file) and set the constraints for your future table. Start with the number of rows and columns and set the size of the cell. Next, choose the font size and the line height.
Don’t forget to add cell paddings and set the alignment. You also can customize the radius of the border. Hit the Create button when you are ready to make the table.
Step 3. The table will be made as a frame. Once it is created, you can adjust the constraints. You can change the design, add different colors or add a shadow.
The best part is that you can adjust this table and add auto layout to make it responsive so it will be easy to maintain when you need to make changes. Just keep in mind that it will take quite a while and you will need to add the auto layout to each cell and row separately to adjust it for the auto layout to work correctly.
Using a plugin is a great way to transfer big pieces of information to Figma, but it won’t work when you need to have a completely customized table with changes frequently.
Method #2. Create a Responsive Table Using Auto Layout
This method will take longer, but as a result, you will have a responsive table that is ready to adapt to any changes.
Step 1. Let’s start by creating a header row for your future table. First, you need to create a responsive cell. Hit the T key to add some text. Change the font size, style, and line height if needed.
Then add the auto layout to your text, by pressing the Shift + A key combination. Next, work on the visual presentation of the cell. Fill it with a color and don’t forget to adjust the paddings.
Step 2. Now you need to multiply the cell to create a header row for your table. Use Command\Ctrl + D key combination to duplicate the cell. Repeat it as many times to as many columns as you want to in your table.
Select all the cells and add an auto layout to them by hitting the Shift + A keys, and then remove the space between the items.
Now select each cell and apply to Fill the container in the Resizing settings, so it will respond accordingly when you will change the size of the table.
If you want to add an inner border between the cells, keep the spacing between the items at 1 px.
Step 3. Now we need to create a text row, which can be done by duplicating the header row and changing the visual design of the row. Select the header row and hit the Command/Ctrl + D key combination. Change the design of the text row and duplicate it as many times as you need.
Step 4. It’s time to make the table responsive! Select all the rows and apply the auto layout to the group by using the Shift + A key shortcut.
Next, select each row and make sure that the resizing settings are the following: the row is Filling the container horizontally, and Fix the container vertically.
Now you can try to change the size of the table and see that it is responsive.
Step 5. The final step is to fill your table with your data or content. Consider making components for table cells and rows to save time when working with tables frequently.
Final Thoughts
Even though it might take some time, it is still possible to make tables in Figma. Depending on your goals, choose one of the methods we discussed above. Aside from the plugin mentioned earlier, you can also try the plugins called the Table Creator or Table Builder.
Do you have any questions about making tables in Figma? Please feel free to comment below.
