Figma Variables Setup Checklist

You’ve made it through the guide, and hopefully your token system is looking sharper than ever. But before you jump into syncing everything to Supernova, here’s a quick checklist to make sure your Figma variables are actually ready to scale.

Think of this as your pre-flight checklist for a smooth takeoff. ✈️

📇 Naming & structure

☑️ All variables follow a clear naming convention (e.g. color/text/primary, spacing/m)

☑️ Variables are grouped into meaningful collections (e.g. Core, Brand A Theme, Accessibility Overrides)

☑️ Each collection has consistent modes applied (e.g. light/dark or brand variants)

☑️ Styles and variables follow the same logic and naming, even across files

☑️ You’ve added descriptions for variables where needed (especially for developers!)

🃏 File structure & organization

☑️ Shared tokens (spacing, radius, neutrals) are in a central core file

☑️ Brand- or product-specific overrides live in their own Figma files

☑️ All files are published as Figma Libraries and styles are actually used in the file

☑️ You’ve avoided cramming unrelated themes (e.g. dark + brand + a11y) into a single collection

☑️ You’ve tested your modes using prototype previews or sample pages

🔗 Supernova sync-ready

☑️ You’ve installed the Figma Variables Sync plugin

☑️ Variable scopes are assigned for number and string types (e.g. spacing, font-size, radius) → Use this table for scope mapping references

☑️ In Supernova's variable plugin settings you have "Assign Token types based on scope" enabled

☑️ Each file is mapped to the correct brand or system in Supernova

☑️ Styles are imported via Figma file link (In Supernova app), and variables via the sync plugin (in Figma)

☑️ Token aliases between styles and variables are preserved (e.g. text styles using color variables)

☑️ You’ve reviewed your tokens in Supernova’s Token Manager using collection filters

💯 Optional but recommended

☑️ Deprecated or unused variables are marked clearly or grouped in a deprecated/ collection

☑️ Custom properties or metadata are applied to tokens (e.g. platform, usage, notes)

☑️ Code pipelines are set up to push tokens directly into your dev workflow

☑️ Tokens are documented using Supernova’s token blocks for docs and theme support

TL;DR: Your Figma variable system is ready when…

• It’s named clearly
• It’s scoped intentionally
• It’s split across files in a way that makes sense
• It’s documented, synced, and ready to ship
  
  

If you’ve ticked all of the above?

You’re ready to scale your design system with confidence — and ship tokens like a team that knows what they’re doing. 💪

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