Figma doesn’t use the term “clip path” in the same way as CSS or SVG, but the effect can still be achieved using masking techniques. In Figma, creating a clip path essentially means masking one layer with another — typically using a shape or frame to control the visibility of another object. This is a powerful method for cropping images, creating custom shapes, or producing layered visual effects in your UI design.
In this tutorial, you’ll learn step-by-step how to create a clip path in Figma using its built-in masking tools.
🧰 What You’ll Need
- A Figma account (free or paid)
- Any shape, frame, or image to use in your design
- The “Mask” function in Figma’s top toolbar
✂️ Step-by-Step: How to Create a Clip Path in Figma
1. Insert Your Base Image or Content
Begin by dragging in or pasting the content you want to be clipped. This can be an image, a gradient, text, or even another frame.
Example: Drop a product photo you want to crop into a custom circle.
2. Create Your Clipping Shape
Next, draw the shape that will define the visible area of your content. This can be a rectangle, circle, polygon, or even a vector shape. You can use the shape tools (R, O, etc.) from the top bar or press Shift + Command/Ctrl + K to draw a custom vector.
Example: Draw a circle to create a circular avatar effect.
3. Position the Shape Above the Content
Figma uses the topmost layer as the mask. Make sure your shape sits above the layer you want to clip in the layer panel. You can right-click the shape and choose Bring to Front.
4. Select Both Layers
Click and drag to select both the shape and the image (or use Shift + Click on each in the layer list).
5. Apply the Mask
With both layers selected, click the Mask button in the top bar or use the shortcut Shift + Command/Ctrl + M.
Voilà! The content is now clipped to the shape above it. You’ve created a clip path.
🎨 Editing or Adjusting the Clip Path
You can still move or resize the image inside the mask:
- Double-click to access the masked image and reposition or resize it.
- Select the mask layer to change the shape of the clip.
- Right-click and choose Use as Mask again to reapply if you adjust layers.
🌟 Bonus Tip: Create a Dynamic Clip Path with Boolean Groups
If you want more advanced clipping effects:
- Combine multiple shapes using Union, Subtract, Intersect, or Exclude.
- Use the resulting shape as a mask.
- Apply it to any content for dynamic clip path results.
✅ Use Cases for Clip Paths in Figma
- Profile picture cropping
- UI mockups with irregular image shapes
- Texturing shapes with background images
- Creating design cutouts for marketing visuals
Final Thoughts
While Figma doesn’t literally use SVG clip paths, the masking feature gives you nearly the same control — all with a few clicks. It’s an essential technique for UI designers, illustrators, and prototypers looking to add layered visuals or isolate elements for precise composition.
Master this workflow and you’ll be able to craft polished, professional layouts with minimal effort.
Designilo 