Figma AI: Revolutionary Design Tool for Modern Collaboration

How to make a mask in figma involves several techniques for controlling image visibility and creating complex shapes:

Basic Masking with Shapes

1. Create Base Shape: Draw the shape that will define visible area (rectangle, circle, or custom vector)
2. Add Image: Import or place image above the shape in layer hierarchy
3. Select Both Layers: Click image, then hold Shift and click shape
4. Apply Mask: Right-click selection and choose “Use as Mask” or use keyboard shortcut Ctrl/Cmd + Alt + M
5. Result: Image appears only within shape boundaries

Text Masking for Creative Typography

1. Create Text Layer: Type desired text using Text tool (T)
2. Add Fill Layer: Place image or gradient layer above text
3. Select Layers: Highlight both text and fill layer
4. Create Clipping Mask: Right-click and select “Use as Mask”
5. Adjustment: Resize or reposition fill layer while maintaining mask

Vector Path Masking

1. Draw Custom Vector: Use Pen tool (P) to create custom shape path
2. Close Path: Ensure vector path connects to form closed shape
3. Position Image: Place image layer above custom vector
4. Apply Mask: Select both and use mask command
5. Edit Mask: Double-click mask to modify vector points

Multiple Object Masking

To mask multiple objects:

1. Group Objects: Select all objects to mask and group (Ctrl/Cmd + G)
2. Create Mask Shape: Draw shape above grouped objects
3. Select Group and Shape: Highlight both mask and group
4. Apply Mask: Use mask command to clip entire group

Inverted Masking Technique

Figma doesn’t have native inverted masks, but achieve this effect:

1. Create Frame: Draw frame matching canvas size
2. Add Knockout Shape: Place shape where you want transparency
3. Blend Mode: Set knockout shape to “Subtract” blend mode
4. Flatten: Export or flatten to maintain effect

Editing Existing Masks

Modify masks after creation:

• Move Image Within Mask: Double-click masked image, reposition content
• Resize Mask Shape: Select mask layer and resize bounds
• Release Mask: Select masked object, right-click, choose “Remove as Mask”
• Change Mask Shape: Replace mask by ungrouping, deleting original mask, and creating new one

Advanced Masking Tips

• Preserve Original: Duplicate layers before masking for non-destructive workflow
• Nested Masks: Create complex effects by masking already-masked objects
• Frame vs Mask: Frames crop content, masks use shape transparency—choose based on need
• Performance: Excessive complex masks impact performance; optimize when possible

Common Masking Use Cases

• Profile Pictures: Circular masks for user avatars
• Header Images: Custom shapes for website hero sections
• Product Mockups: Masking designs onto device screens
• Decorative Effects: Creative text and shape combinations
• Image Galleries: Consistent aspect ratios across varied images