You can start learning Figma for free, but the depth of your skills will depend on the resources available. Free resources typically cover the fundamentals—such as basic interface navigation and essential tools—that provide a solid starting point for beginners. However, to master more advanced techniques like advanced prototyping, collaboration workflows, and integrating with other tools, you may need to explore more specialized training options. Investing in advanced courses or workshops can offer deeper insights and practical experience that propel your proficiency in using Figma to its fullest potential, ensuring you can tackle complex design challenges effectively.
What Free Resources are Available for Learning Figma?
When looking at the available resources to learn Figma, you can find several that will help you learn the program independently. These resources accommodate diverse learning styles and preferences, allowing you to discover the ideal approach for your educational journey. From structured online courses to engaging social media content, here are some of the best tools to help you master Figma independently.
Online On-Demand Courses
Online on-demand courses are an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn Figma at their own pace. Coursera, Udemy, Skillshare, and LinkedIn Learning provide extensive courses, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, all taught by industry professionals. These courses typically include video lectures, interactive exercises, and downloadable resources, providing a comprehensive learning experience. Enrolling in these courses gives you a structured understanding of Figma's features and functionalities. Practical assignments included in the curriculum allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. The flexibility of on-demand courses means you can study whenever it suits you, making it easier to fit learning into your busy schedule.
YouTube Tutorials
YouTube offers a wealth of free Figma tutorials to help you gradually enhance your skills. Figma-focused channels provide high-quality videos encompassing various topics, from basic tool usage to advanced design techniques. YouTube tutorials are particularly beneficial for visual students who prefer to see step-by-step demonstrations. The platform's vast library allows you to find content that matches your specific needs and interests, enabling you to explore Figma at your own pace. Practical tips and insights are shared by experienced designers in many YouTube tutorials, helping you learn industry-relevant skills.
Blogs and Articles
Design blogs and articles are another valuable resource for self-teaching Figma. Noble Desktop and other platforms publish in-depth articles that explore various aspects of Figma and design theory. These written resources typically feature detailed explanations, screenshots, and examples, simplifying complex concepts. Engaging with blogs and articles keeps you updated on the design industry's current trends and best practices. Many articles offer practical tips and step-by-step guides to help you tackle specific design challenges, enhancing your overall proficiency in Figma.
Podcasts, Webinars, Seminars
Podcasts, webinars, and seminars offer an engaging way to learn about Figma and design. Podcasts can feature interviews with design experts who share their knowledge and experiences, providing valuable insights into the design process. Webinars and online seminars, frequently hosted by Figma or other design organizations, provide interactive live sessions. Here, you can engage with professionals, gaining real-time insights and asking questions as you learn. These formats are ideal for auditory students and those who enjoy interactive learning experiences. You can better understand Figma and its applications in various design contexts by tuning into podcasts and participating in webinars and seminars.
Social Media
Platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn serve as abundant sources of information and inspiration for those using Figma. Following Figma's official accounts and influential designers, you can access a steady stream of tips, tutorials, and design showcases. Social media platforms also provide avenues to interact with the design community, where you can pose questions and seek feedback on your work. Platforms like Instagram and Dribbble are particularly popular for visual content, allowing you to discover new design trends and techniques. Engaging with social media can keep you motivated and informed, making it a valuable tool for continuous learning.
E-books and Guides
E-books and guides provide comprehensive and in-depth coverage of Figma and design principles. Many industry experts and organizations publish e-books that delve into specific aspects of Figma, offering detailed instructions and insights. These resources are perfect for students who prefer a more structured and thorough study approach. E-books often come with practical exercises and examples that help reinforce your understanding. By reading e-books and guides, you can gain a solid foundation in Figma and develop advanced skills to enhance your design capabilities.
How to Make Use of Free Figma Resources
Supplementing your current training strategically is crucial to maximizing the free resources available for learning Figma. One effective method is to start by exploring the foundational tutorials on Figma's official website. These resources provide a comprehensive introduction to the software, covering essential tools and features, which is invaluable for beginners. As you progress, using YouTube channels that offer step-by-step tutorials can help you deepen your understanding of more complex aspects of Figma, such as advanced prototyping and design systems.
Integrating free courses from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning into your learning routine can provide a structured approach to learning. These courses often include quizzes and hands-on projects that reinforce your learning. By completing these courses, you gain foundational knowledge and practical experience that can be beneficial when you move on to more advanced training.
To prepare for formal training, such as enrolling in a bootcamp or live course, utilizing these free resources can give you a head start. Learning the basics beforehand during paid training lets you focus on more complex topics and skills. It also helps you identify areas needing further clarification or practice, ensuring a more targeted approach during the paid learning phase. This strategic use of free resources can optimize your learning experience and make transitioning to more advanced studies more seamless.
Limitations of Free Resources
While free resources for learning Figma offer valuable introductory knowledge and skills, they have certain limitations. One of the primary drawbacks is the lack of comprehensive depth and breadth compared to paid courses or bootcamps. Free tutorials and articles typically cover basic functionalities and introductory concepts, which may not be sufficient for mastering more advanced features of Figma or tackling complex design challenges.
Another limitation is the variability in quality and consistency across free resources. Since individuals or organizations often create these resources without rigorous oversight or standardization, the information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or presented in a structured manner. Students who depend exclusively on free materials may encounter gaps in understanding or confusion.
Free resources generally lack interactive elements such as live feedback, hands-on projects with real-time guidance, or access to experienced instructors. These interactive components are crucial for deepening understanding, applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, and receiving personalized support—all of which contribute significantly to effective learning and skill development in Figma. Therefore, while free resources serve as a valuable starting point, they may not fully meet the needs of students seeking comprehensive and structured education in Figma.
What to Do After Utilizing Free Figma Resources
Paid, live training programs like those offered by Noble Desktop provide several distinct advantages over free resources when learning Figma comprehensively and effectively. One of the primary benefits is the structured curriculum designed by industry experts. The creators meticulously craft these courses to cover all aspects of Figma, from basic functionalities to advanced techniques, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education. This systematic approach assists students in establishing a strong base and advancing steadily through the content, which is essential for mastering a sophisticated tool such as Figma.
Live training offers the advantage of real-time interaction with experienced instructors. Unlike self-paced tutorials or articles, live classes allow students to ask questions, seek clarification, and receive immediate feedback on their work. This interaction fosters a deeper understanding of concepts, allows for real-time troubleshooting, and encourages active engagement in the learning process. Noble Desktop instructors excel in Figma and teaching, providing valuable insights and best practices beyond what static resources can offer.
Another significant advantage of paid training is the opportunity for hands-on practice through structured exercises and projects. These practical assignments simulate real-world scenarios, enabling students to apply their knowledge and skills meaningfully. Hands-on practice like this is essential for developing confidence and skill in utilizing Figma for crafting wireframes, prototypes, and interface designs. Paid courses often include access to supplementary materials, resources, and community forums, providing continuous support and opportunities for further learning beyond the classroom sessions.
Learn Figma with Noble Desktop
Noble Desktop offers students various options for mastering web design using Figma. Figma courses are available in person at Noble's Manhattan campus and online from the comfort of your home. Experienced instructors teach these courses, and even the online courses have small class sizes that allow students to receive focused attention to their learning needs in real time. Almost all of Noble's courses come with tech support, with in-person students using in-house computers and distance students receiving set-up assistance to ensure everyone is on the same page. Plus, these courses can take a free retake within one year. Students can refine their skills during this retake, compensate for their missed work, or simply gain extra practice with Figma.
Students looking to learn the intricacies of Figma may consider enrolling in Noble's Figma Bootcamp. This course will teach students how to build web designs using Figma independently and as part of a collaborative team. Students will learn the basics of the program, such as how to create and resize vector illustrations, optimize their designs for different-sized screens, and export their designs for prototyping or demonstration. Then, students will collaborate on advanced designs, including features such as hovers, scrolling elements, or web assets. At the end of the course, students will know how to use Figma to build professional quality web designs.
For students looking to strike out into a new career as a Web Designer, Noble offers many professional training options for students hoping to learn Figma. The UX & UI Design Certificate program teaches students in-depth user experience design practices, allowing them to test and research user behavior to make informed decisions about the interfaces they are designing in Figma. This assures that their web pages will be more accessible and easy to navigate.
Noble's Web Development Certificate program teaches students the technical side of web page design. After learning how to build a layout in Figma, students will learn how to use HTML/CSS, Flex, Bootstrap, and JavaScript to turn that design into a functioning webpage or user interface. More creatively oriented students may look towards Noble's Digital Design Certificate program. This course, aimed at aspiring Graphic Designers, will teach students how to build assets for web interfaces using Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign before teaching them how to import those designs into Figma to serve as templates or plugins for later use.
Related Figma Resources
How to Learn Figma
Master Figma with hands-on training. Figma is a popular design application for creating, editing, and sharing clickable prototypes of websites and mobile apps.
- Figma Bootcamp at Noble Desktop: live, instructor-led course available in NYC or live online
- Find Figma Classes Near You: Search & compare dozens of available courses in-person
- Attend a Figma class live online (remote/virtual training) from anywhere
- Find & compare the best online Figma classes (on-demand) from the top providers and platforms
- Train your staff with corporate and onsite Figma training