Figma

How to create and use interactive overlays in Figma prototypes?

Discover how to make and use interactive overlays in Figma prototypes with this easy guide. Boost user experience and make your design process smoother.

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Overview

Interactive overlays in Figma prototypes really take user experience up a notch. They add extra info or features without needing to leave the current screen, so it's awesome for pop-ups, modals, dropdowns—stuff like that. To get overlays down pat, it's key to know how Figma’s triggers and actions work to manage overlay behavior, plus how to use layering and animations. Done right, they can make your design feel a lot more lifelike and interactive, mirroring the final product much better. Ready to dive into creating and using overlays in Figma?

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How to create and use interactive overlays in Figma prototypes?

Step 1: Open Your Figma Project

Alright, first things first, open up your Figma project where you want to add that snazzy interactive overlay. Make sure you're in the right prototype where all the magic will happen.

Step 2: Create the Overlay Frame

  1. Hit the F key or click on the frame tool to create a new frame.
  2. Design your overlay within this frame. It could be a modal, dialog, or any other pop-up interface you fancy.
  3. Give the frame a clear name like "Modal Overlay" so you can easily find it later.

Step 3: Position the Overlay Frame

  1. Place the overlay frame anywhere on the canvas. Don't worry, its position here won't affect the final prototype.
  2. Make sure the overlay looks exactly how you want it to appear when triggered.

Step 4: Set Up the Trigger Element

  1. Find and select the UI element that will trigger the overlay, like a button or an icon.
  2. With the element selected, click on the Prototype tab in the right sidebar.

Step 5: Create the Interaction

  1. Click the + icon next to Interactions to open the interaction details.
  2. Set the Action to Navigate to.
  3. Pick the overlay frame you created earlier from the dropdown list.
  4. Under Transition, select Open Overlay. This will reveal more options specific to overlays.

Step 6: Configure the Overlay Options

  1. Decide how the overlay should open:
    • Overlay Position can be centered, top, bottom, left, right, etc.
    • Choose Move In or Slide In animation options for how the overlay should appear.
  2. If you want users to be able to close the overlay by clicking outside of it, set the Close When Clicking Outside option.

Step 7: Add a Close Interaction

  1. Inside your overlay frame, create a close button or a clickable area.
  2. Select the close button and head over to the Prototype tab.
  3. Set up a new interaction with the Action as Close Overlay.
  4. Tweak the transition details and animation to your liking.

Step 8: Test the Prototype

  1. Click the Play button in the top-right corner to enter prototype mode.
  2. Interact with the trigger element to see if the overlay pops up as expected.
  3. Test the close button to make sure the overlay closes properly.

Step 9: Refine and Iterate

  1. Make any necessary tweaks based on your prototype test.
  2. Keep testing and refining until the overlay interaction is smooth and meets your design goals.

By following these steps, you can create and test interactive overlays in Figma prototypes with ease.

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