How to Make a Border in Figma

Borders are essential design elements that help define shapes, highlight components, and improve UI structure. In Figma, borders are created using the Stroke feature, which can be customized in terms of color, thickness, alignment, and style. Whether you want a simple outline around a button or a more complex visual effect, Figma gives you the tools to build exactly the border you need.

🧱 What Counts as a Border in Figma?

In Figma, borders are not a separate tool—instead, they are controlled through Strokes. When you add a stroke to any shape, frame, or component, you’re essentially adding a border. You can control stroke weight (thickness), color, dash pattern, and position (inside, center, or outside).

✏️ How to Add a Simple Border

To add a basic border around any object:

Select the Object
Click on the frame, shape, or group that needs a border.
Open the Stroke Panel
In the right-hand sidebar under Design, locate the Stroke section.
Click the “+” Icon
This adds a default 1px stroke, usually centered around the shape.
Customize the Border
- Color: Choose any solid or gradient color.
- Weight: Adjust the thickness of the stroke.
- Alignment: Set the stroke to sit inside, centered, or outside the shape’s edge.

🔲 Making Bordered Buttons or Inputs

If you’re designing form elements or buttons with borders:

Create a rectangle or auto layout frame.
Add a stroke with your desired border properties.
Use corner radius settings for rounded borders.
For interactive components, define different stroke colors per variant (e.g., focus state, hover, error).

🔁 Applying Dashed or Double Borders

Figma lets you style strokes with custom dash patterns:

Click on the stroke settings gear icon.
Enter values under Dash and Gap fields.
For example, Dash: 4, Gap: 2 creates a dashed border.

For more complex styles, you can add multiple strokes in the Effects section and layer them creatively.

💡 Bonus Tips

Use Auto Layout with padding and strokes for scalable bordered components.
Combine strokes with Drop Shadows for depth and contrast.
Use components to apply consistent borders across your design system.

✅ Final Thoughts

Creating borders in Figma is simple yet highly customizable. Whether you need a clean line around a button or a stylized dashed outline for emphasis, the Stroke settings provide all the control you need. Once you master these basics, you’ll be able to elevate your interface with clarity, hierarchy, and visual polish.