Master Figma variables and slot components
This talk explores two advanced techniques that explores the absolute frontier of dynamic, context-aware design systems, hands-on.
First, we dive into contextual awareness, using variables to make components intelligently conform to their environments, including emphasis levels, size, brand, colorMode, type and much much more. By leveraging variables creatively, we can make component consumption more intuitive and self-regulating.
Second, we unveil the absolute best implementation of slot components, while most designers rely on basic instance swapping. Real slots—like those in web technologies—offer far greater flexibility. We will demonstrate the implementation of real <slots/> in Figma, while enforcing structural rules with a whitelist. With component composability + contextual awareness, you will be able to build the most cutting edge design systems in 2025 and beyond!
What you will learn
Key takeaways from this advanced Figma session
- 1
How to use variables for true contextual awareness, making components adapt automatically to their environment.
- 2
A new approach to slot components in Figma that brings the flexibility of web-based slot mechanics + whitelist + ease of use.
- 3
Practical techniques for enhancing reusability, increasing component adoption and reducing detachments in your design system.
Who is this for
This talk is for design system architects, advanced Figma users, and front-end designers who want to bridge the gap between design and code. If you've ever felt constrained by Figma's built-in component system or wished for something next level, more intelligent, this talk will give you the exact tools you'll need to push beyond those limits.
Presented by
Learn from experienced Design Systems professionals
Marcin Spiewak
He/Him
Design Systems Architect · Design Tokens Crusader
I'm a design system architect with 15+ years in UI and product design essentially a one-man army who blends design with a bit of coding. I'm focused on pushing multibrand design systems and stretching Figma and its variables to their limits (and beyond). Oh, and I'm also a proud cat dad of four and the co-creator of the Variable Visualizer plugin my beloved digital child 🙂
Mr Biscuit
He/Him
Design System Architect · Figma Plugins Builder
I am a design system architect specializing in Figma component libraries, hacks and plugins. With a background in Apple's developer ecosystem, and more than 8 years of UI/UX design experience, I approach design systems with dev in mind and extreme pragmatism.
My projects:
- • Variable Visualizer
- • Instance Utils
- • Ant Design System
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