Figma Font Swap: A Guide To Replacing All Fonts

Hey design enthusiasts! Ever stared at a Figma file and thought, "Ugh, those fonts just aren't it"? We've all been there! Changing fonts in Figma might seem like a daunting task, especially when dealing with large designs. But fear not, because in this article, we'll dive deep into how to replace all fonts in Figma, making your design process smoother and more efficient. We'll explore various methods, from the straightforward "Select Same" approach to using plugins, ensuring you have all the tools you need to revamp your typography.

Why Replace Fonts in Figma?

Before we jump into the "how," let's quickly chat about the "why." Replacing fonts in Figma is a common need for a bunch of reasons. First off, it's about branding. Your chosen font is a huge part of your brand's identity, and when you're working on projects, you want to make sure everything's consistent. This might mean swapping out generic fonts for something unique that aligns with your brand's style guide. Think about it: a sleek sans-serif for a tech startup or a playful script for a children's brand. The font choice can really make or break the message you're trying to convey!

Secondly, projects evolve. Maybe you started a design with one font, and as the project grows, your needs change. Perhaps you're moving from a free font to a premium one for better readability and a professional look. Maybe you get a new brand guideline that tells you to adopt a specific new font, that's where the changing process comes into play. The ability to quickly change all fonts in Figma ensures that your design stays aligned with the latest visual requirements. The importance of this process can not be overstated, it can determine how consistent the design looks and feels. Imagine having to go back and edit every text box individually, it is a tedious nightmare. We will go into all the different methods to achieve that in the following sections. The core thing is, by knowing how to change fonts in Figma, you're staying flexible and efficient, able to adapt to any situation quickly.

Thirdly, collaboration is key. When working in teams, especially with shared Figma files, font standardization becomes super important. You might receive a file that uses a font you don't have installed or a font that is outside of your style guidelines. Changing fonts ensures everyone's on the same page, preventing visual inconsistencies and making sure everyone's seeing the design the way it's intended. It's a win-win for teamwork, helping prevent version chaos and maintaining a professional appearance.

Finally, think about accessibility. Changing fonts allows you to improve the readability of your designs. This can be super important for different audiences, especially when you consider different devices. The ability to find and replace all fonts in Figma can allow you to make your content accessible to more users. Therefore, there's a good reason to switch fonts! This includes font size, weight, and style. The right font choice and setup can have a big impact on how users perceive and interact with your design.

Method 1: The "Select Same" Technique

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and show you the first method for changing fonts in Figma. It's the "Select Same" technique, and it's a great starting point for smaller projects or when you're dealing with just a few instances of a specific font.

Here’s how it works:

1. Select a Text Layer: First, pick any text layer that uses the font you want to change. Click on it in the design canvas or in the layers panel.
2. Right-Click and Select "Select All with the same font": Once you've selected the text layer, right-click on it. In the context menu, find and click on "Select All with the same font." Figma will magically highlight all text layers that are using the same font as your initial selection. It's like a superpower for font changes!
3. Change the Font: With all the text layers selected, head over to the Text section in the right-hand panel. Here, you'll see the font name displayed. Click on the font name, and a dropdown menu will appear with a list of all the fonts available in your Figma file or installed on your system. Simply choose the new font you want to use. And voila, the font will be replaced across all selected layers.

This method is super quick and easy, especially when you need to change a single font used in a few places. The benefits are clear: swift font replacement with just a few clicks. It's the perfect solution for minor edits or when working with simpler designs. The downside? If the font is used in a ton of places, or if you have multiple fonts to change, this process can become a bit time-consuming. You will need to repeat the process for each font. However, for those smaller tasks, this technique is a lifesaver. It is the core function of how to change fonts in Figma and is good to master it.

Method 2: Using the "Find and Replace" Plugin

If you're dealing with a larger design project and need a more efficient way to replace fonts in Figma, then plugins are your best friends. The "Find and Replace" plugin is an awesome tool that will speed up your font replacement process.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Install the Plugin: First, you'll need to install the "Find and Replace" plugin. Go to the Figma Community (Plugins > Browse plugins in the Figma menu) and search for "Find and Replace." Click "Install." The plugin will be added to your Figma arsenal and is ready to be used. This will add more function to the core function of how to change fonts in Figma.
2. Open the Plugin: With your Figma file open, go to Plugins in the top menu and select "Find and Replace." You can also right-click on the canvas and find the plugin in the right-click menu.
3. Search and Replace: The plugin window will pop up. In the "Find" field, type the name of the font you want to replace. In the "Replace with" field, type the name of the new font you want to use. You can also specify other attributes such as font style or size. This is where you can do more complicated replacements. In most cases, these functions are super helpful for your project.
4. Run the Replacement: Click the "Replace All" button. The plugin will scan your entire design and replace all instances of the old font with the new font. The plugin will show you a message saying how many replacements were made.

The great thing about the "Find and Replace" plugin is its speed and versatility. It can handle multiple fonts simultaneously, saving you tons of time. The plugin also allows for global changes across your entire design, making it ideal for large projects or when you need to replace all fonts in a Figma file quickly. You won't have to go through each text box or layer individually. The plugin takes care of everything automatically. However, keep in mind that plugins may have limitations depending on how the Figma file is structured and the complexity of your design. Always double-check your design after using a plugin to make sure everything looks as expected.

Method 3: Utilizing Styles for Font Replacement

Alright, let’s talk about a more strategic approach: using Text Styles for changing fonts in Figma. Text Styles are a powerful feature in Figma that can significantly streamline your design workflow, especially when it comes to font management.

Here's how to make it work:

1. Identify and Apply Text Styles: Before you even think about font replacement, make sure you're using Text Styles in your design. If you're not familiar, Text Styles are pre-defined sets of text properties, including font, size, weight, and spacing. When you apply a Text Style to a text layer, all the properties defined in that style are applied to the text. In other words, Text Styles are reusable style assets. In the "Text" section of the right-hand panel, click the four-dot icon (Style) and select a style for your text. This connects the text to the particular style.
2. Edit the Text Style: If you decide you need to replace fonts in Figma, it's as simple as modifying the Text Style itself. In the right-hand panel, hover over the Text Style you want to change and click the edit icon (pencil icon). Change the font to your new desired font in the style settings. Figma will then automatically update all the text layers that use that Text Style with the new font. It’s like magic!
3. Ensure Consistency: Using Text Styles helps maintain consistency across your design. When you use Text Styles, all text that uses the same style will automatically reflect changes. It's especially useful for different text elements, such as headings, body text, or button text. So that all of them, for example, have the same font.

Using Text Styles is a super efficient way to replace all fonts in Figma. The benefits are immense: You only need to make the change in one place, and it's reflected across all linked instances. It is easy to change and ensures consistency throughout your design. This method also saves you a ton of time. It's perfect for large projects, especially where you have a structured design system in place. The downside? If you haven't been using Text Styles, you'll need to apply them first, which might take some extra time initially. However, once you're set up, the benefits far outweigh the initial effort. This is the best way to change fonts in Figma and is recommended when you want to make a global change.

Best Practices for Font Replacement in Figma

So, you’ve got the know-how on how to replace fonts in Figma. Now, let's look at some best practices to make the whole process even smoother. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a seamless font replacement experience.

• Backups: Always make a backup of your Figma file before making any major changes, especially when replacing fonts. This ensures that you can always revert to an older version if something goes wrong. This is the most important thing to keep in mind when you are about to replace all fonts in Figma.
• Test on a Sample: If you are unsure about a font choice, test it out on a small sample of your design before applying it globally. This way, you can get a feel for how the font looks in context. Especially if you don't know the font, testing before making a global change will prevent any issues. You can prevent issues before they happen.
• Consider Font Licensing: Make sure you have the proper licenses for any new fonts you use, especially if you're using a premium font. Using a font without a license can lead to legal issues. You need to make sure everything is in place before changing fonts in Figma.
• Check Readability: Make sure the new font is readable, especially for body text. Test the font across various devices and screen sizes to ensure good legibility. This also guarantees that your audience will have an easy experience using your product.
• Inspect and Refine: After replacing fonts, inspect your design carefully. Pay attention to any kerning, leading, or alignment issues that may have arisen. You may need to make small adjustments to optimize the appearance of the new font. After replacing, the process is not quite finished yet. If you are doing this to replace all fonts in Figma, you might want to consider going over the content again.
• Communicate with the Team: If you're working in a team, communicate the font replacement process and any changes with your team members. This will help them stay informed and avoid confusion. Keep everyone updated and make sure everyone is aware of the font change.

Troubleshooting Common Font Replacement Issues

Even with the best practices in place, you might encounter some hiccups during the font replacement process. Let's cover some common issues and how to solve them, so you can change fonts in Figma without a headache.

• Font Not Displaying Correctly: If the new font isn't displaying correctly, make sure it's installed on your system. Also, check that the font file is valid and hasn't been corrupted. Sometimes fonts have issues if they are not installed correctly, so make sure they are installed.
• Text Overflow or Clipping: If text is overflowing or getting clipped after the font change, adjust the text box size or use a smaller font size. Your content's design may need a bit of adjustment, so make sure everything fits the text frame.
• Inconsistent Spacing or Alignment: Fonts have different character widths and spacing. After changing a font, you may need to adjust the kerning, leading, and alignment of your text to maintain visual consistency. After changing fonts in Figma, this may be necessary.
• Missing Glyphs: If you see missing characters or strange symbols, the new font might not support all the characters used in your design. Try using a different font that supports all the necessary characters.
• Plugin Issues: If you're using a plugin, make sure it's up to date and compatible with your version of Figma. If the plugin isn't working as expected, try restarting Figma or reinstalling the plugin. There is always a possibility for the plugin to cause trouble, so it is necessary to check.

Conclusion: Mastering Font Replacement in Figma

And there you have it, folks! Now you have a comprehensive guide on how to replace fonts in Figma. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, knowing these methods will give you the flexibility and control to bring your designs to life.

Remember, whether you're using the "Select Same" technique, a helpful plugin, or leveraging the power of Text Styles, the goal is always to create a design that looks great and meets your project’s needs. Experiment with different approaches and find the ones that work best for your workflow. Hopefully, the information above, especially how to change fonts in Figma, will allow you to do just that.

So go ahead, change those fonts, experiment, and make your designs shine! Happy designing!