How to Use Boolean Operations in Figma: Simple Guide

In Figma, use boolean operations to combine multiple shapes into one by selecting them and choosing Union, Subtract, Intersect, or Exclude from the top toolbar. These operations let you create complex shapes by adding, removing, or overlapping parts of your shapes.

Syntax

Boolean operations in Figma are applied by selecting two or more shapes and then clicking one of the boolean operation buttons in the top toolbar:

• Union: Combines all selected shapes into one shape.
• Subtract: Removes the top shape(s) from the bottom shape.
• Intersect: Keeps only the overlapping area of all selected shapes.
• Exclude: Removes the overlapping area, keeping the non-overlapping parts.

These operations create a new combined shape layer that you can edit as one object.

figma

Select shapes > Click one of: Union, Subtract, Intersect, Exclude

Example

This example shows how to create a new shape by subtracting a circle from a rectangle:

figma

1. Draw a rectangle.
2. Draw a circle overlapping the rectangle.
3. Select both shapes.
4. Click the <code>Subtract</code> boolean operation in the toolbar.

Result: The circle area is cut out from the rectangle, creating a new shape with a hole.

Output

A single shape that looks like a rectangle with a circular hole where the circle overlapped.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when using boolean operations in Figma include:

• Not selecting all shapes before applying the operation, so it won't combine correctly.
• Trying to edit individual shapes after boolean operation without using "Enter" to go inside the boolean group.
• Forgetting that boolean operations create a compound shape layer, which may affect layer order and grouping.

Always double-check your selection and use the layers panel to manage boolean groups.

figma

Wrong:
Select only one shape > Click Union (no effect)

Right:
Select all shapes > Click Union

Quick Reference

Boolean Operation	Effect
Union	Combines all selected shapes into one shape.
Subtract	Removes the top shape(s) from the bottom shape.
Intersect	Keeps only the overlapping area of all selected shapes.
Exclude	Removes the overlapping area, keeping the non-overlapping parts.

Key Takeaways

Select multiple shapes before applying any boolean operation in Figma.

Use Union to combine shapes and Subtract to cut one shape from another.

Enter the boolean group to edit individual shapes inside the combined shape.

Boolean operations create compound shapes that behave as single layers.

Check layer order and grouping to avoid unexpected results.