How to Use Custom Fonts in Figma: Simple Steps

To use a custom font in Figma, first install the font on your computer and then enable the Figma Font Helper app to access local fonts. After that, you can select your custom font from the font dropdown in the text tool within Figma.

Syntax

Using a custom font in Figma involves these steps:

• Install font: Add the font file (e.g., .ttf or .otf) to your computer.
• Enable Figma Font Helper: This app allows Figma to access your local fonts.
• Select font in Figma: Use the text tool and pick your custom font from the font list.

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No code is required as this is a UI-based process in Figma.

Example

This example shows how to use a custom font named "MyCustomFont" in Figma after installation and enabling the Font Helper.

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1. Download and install "MyCustomFont.ttf" on your computer.
2. Open Figma desktop app or browser.
3. Launch and sign in to the Figma Font Helper app.
4. In Figma, select the Text tool (T).
5. Click the font dropdown and type "MyCustomFont".
6. Select "MyCustomFont" to apply it to your text layer.

Output

Text in your Figma design now displays using "MyCustomFont".

Common Pitfalls

• Not installing the font: Figma cannot use fonts not installed on your computer.
• Font Helper not running: Without the Figma Font Helper app running, local fonts won’t appear in Figma.
• Using browser without Font Helper: Browsers can only access Google Fonts and web fonts, so custom local fonts won’t show unless Font Helper is active.
• Font name mismatch: Make sure to select the exact font name as installed; typos prevent selection.

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Wrong way:
// Trying to use a custom font without installing or enabling Font Helper
Text tool font dropdown: "MyCustomFont" not listed

Right way:
// Install font and run Font Helper
Text tool font dropdown: "MyCustomFont" appears and can be selected

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Notes
1	Install font on computer	Use .ttf or .otf files
2	Run Figma Font Helper app	Allows Figma to access local fonts
3	Open Figma and select Text tool	Shortcut: T key
4	Choose your custom font from dropdown	Type font name to search
5	Apply font to your text layer	Your text updates with custom font

Key Takeaways

Install your custom font on your computer before using it in Figma.

Run the Figma Font Helper app to enable local font access in Figma.

Select your custom font from the font dropdown in the text tool.

Custom fonts won’t appear in Figma browser without Font Helper.

Check font names carefully to avoid selection errors.