How to access variables in a Figma project

Oscar de la Hera Gomez
A flower that represents Figma with the text "Access Variables" beneath it.

A step by step guide on accessing a Figma design files variables.

Step One: Open a Figma Design File

A screenshot of Figma showing a project that was created as part of our tutorial series. Highlighted center left on the screen is a tile that represents a design file. Double click a design file tile to open a design file.

In Figma, open the design file in which you wish to access the variables.

Step Two: Open the Variables Window

A screenshot of Figma highlighting the settings icon to the right of "Local Variables" on the right menu side bar. Click it to open the variables window. If you can't find it, make sure you have selected the canvas (i.e. that no frame, asset or other object is selected).

On the right menu bar, next to Local Variables, click the settings icon. This will open up the variables window for this project.

If you cannot find it, make sure that the canvas is selected (i.e. that nothing is selected in the Figma design file).

A screenshot of Figma showing the variables window open. There are no variables and the window displays a "+ create variable" inviting you create a variable.

This is what an empty variables window looks like.

A screenshot of Figma showing the variables window. A single string variable "hello" with value "hello world" is shown in the window.

This is what a variables window with a string variable looks like.

Looking to learn more about things you can do with Variables or Figma ?

We recommend you check out our Figma Variables Guide or search our blog to find educational content on learning how to use Figma.

Any Questions?

We are actively looking for feedback on how to improve this resource. Please send us a note to inquiries@delasign.com with any thoughts or feedback you may have.
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