A Free Way to Explore Color Systems in Figma (Reactive Variables)
You normally need a Figma Professional plan to use variables.
In this video, I show a different approach — a free way to explore and switch color systems using what I call reactive variables.
Instead of manually reassigning styles or rebuilding your design, reactive variables let your design update live while you change:
Color strategies (monochromatic, split complementary, etc.)
Light and dark modes
Primary and secondary colors
Entire imported color palettes
So you can compare, explore, and test design directions without breaking your system or duplicating files.
In this tutorial, I show:
How to install and use the Inked Colibri plugin
How reactive variables update your design in real time
How to switch between color strategies instantly
How to toggle between light and dark modes
How to import a palette from Real-Time Colors and apply it to your design
This is useful if you:
Are on the free Figma plan
Want to explore multiple color systems quickly
Want a safer way to experiment without damaging your design system
Want to understand color relationships visually instead of theoretically
🔗 Links
Figma Playground File:
https://www.figma.com/design/cE460guG6sS11...
Plugin: https://inked-colibri.narek.ch
Documentation: https://inked-colibri.narek.ch/docs
Real-Time Colors: https://www.realtimecolors.com