Embedding SVG Maps in Figma: A Step-by-Step Guide

Figma has become the go-to design tool for modern designers, and SVG maps are a perfect fit for its vector-based workflow. Whether you're designing dashboards, landing pages, or infographics, embedding SVG maps in Figma gives you full control over styling, editing, and prototyping.

In this guide, we'll walk through everything you need to know about importing and working with SVG maps in Figma, from basic import to advanced customization.

Why SVG Maps Work Great in Figma

SVG maps and Figma are a natural match:

• Native Vector Support — Figma handles SVG paths perfectly
• Fully Editable — Modify colors, shapes, and styles directly
• Component Ready — Turn maps into reusable components
• Prototype Friendly — Add interactions and animations
• Export Options — Export in any format you need

Step 1: Generate Your SVG Map

Before importing into Figma, you need an SVG file:

1. Visit World in Dots
2. Select your region (world, continent, or country)
3. Customize dot size, spacing, and colors
4. Download as SVG

Tip: For Figma, choose a style with clear, distinct dots rather than very dense patterns — this makes editing easier.

Step 2: Import SVG into Figma

Method 1: Drag and Drop

1. Open your Figma file
2. Drag the SVG file from your computer directly onto the canvas
3. Figma will automatically import it as a vector group

Method 2: Import Menu

1. Click File > Import
2. Select your SVG file
3. Click Open

The map will appear on your canvas as a grouped vector object.

Step 3: Ungroup and Organize

After importing:

1. Select the map and press Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + G to ungroup
2. You'll see individual path elements for each dot or region
3. Rename layers for easier navigation (e.g., "World Map - Dots", "Country Outlines")

Note: Complex maps may have many grouped layers. Ungroup gradually to maintain organization.

Step 4: Customize Colors and Styles

Changing Dot Colors

1. Select the dot paths you want to change
2. Use the Fill panel to apply new colors
3. Use Shift + Click to select multiple elements

Applying Styles

• Create Color Styles — Save your map colors as Figma styles for consistency
• Use Auto Layout — If your map includes labels, use Auto Layout for alignment
• Add Effects — Apply shadows or blurs for depth

Step 5: Create Components

Turn your map into a reusable component:

1. Select the entire map group
2. Right-click and choose Create Component (or press Cmd/Ctrl + Alt + K)
3. Create variants for different regions or styles
4. Use Component Properties to switch between variants

This makes it easy to use the same map across multiple frames with consistent styling.

Advanced Techniques

Adding Interactivity

1. Create a Prototype connection from your map
2. Add Hover Effects using Figma's interaction settings
3. Link to detail frames showing country-specific information

Masking and Clipping

• Use Mask to show only specific regions
• Apply Boolean Operations to combine or subtract map elements
• Create Clipping Masks for creative compositions

Exporting from Figma

When ready to export:

• SVG — For web use, preserves vector quality
• PNG — For presentations or social media
• PDF — For print materials

Common Workflows

Dashboard Design

1. Import world map as background
2. Add data overlays using Figma's shape tools
3. Create interactive prototypes for client demos

Landing Page Design

1. Use dotted map as hero section background
2. Apply blend modes for subtle integration
3. Export optimized SVG for web implementation

Infographic Design

1. Import regional maps
2. Add annotations and callouts
3. Create multiple frames for different data views

Troubleshooting

Map appears pixelated:

• Ensure you're viewing at 100% zoom
• Check that the SVG was imported as vectors, not rasterized

Can't select individual elements:

• Ungroup the imported SVG completely
• Use the Layers panel to navigate nested groups

Colors not applying correctly:

• Check if elements have strokes that need to be removed
• Verify fill settings in the Properties panel

Final Thoughts

Embedding SVG maps in Figma opens up endless design possibilities. The combination of vector editing, component systems, and prototyping makes Figma ideal for map-based designs.

With tools like World in Dots generating your base SVG, you can focus on the creative aspects — styling, layout, and interaction — rather than creating maps from scratch.

Start designing with SVG maps in Figma today — your next project is just a download away.