AEUX

Animation workflow : Figma -> After Effects

1. Purpose of This Workflow

This document outlines our standardized workflow for creating motion graphics and animations by starting in Figma, then importing into After Effects (AE) using the AEUX plugin.

The main goals are:

  • Streamline the transition from design to animation

  • Reduce repetitive setup work in AE

  • Preserve layers, hierarchy, and positioning from Figma

  • Make asset collection and organization easier

Note: As design and animation tools continue to evolve, this workflow may be updated. The general principles, however, remain the same.


2. Why This Workflow

Instead of designing directly in AE or manually importing assets from Figma, we use this workflow because:

  • Efficiency: Direct Figma → AE transfer saves setup time for each project.

  • Asset Integrity: Layer structure, naming, and positions are preserved, minimizing errors.

  • Consistency: Design elements remain intact; no need to recreate vectors or re-import images.

  • Scalability: Works for multiple screens, pages, or complex UI animations.

3. When to Use This Workflow

Use this workflow whenever:

  • The project starts as a Figma storyboard or UI design

  • Screens, cards, or UI components need to be animated in AE

  • Quick iteration or export of multiple screens is required

  • Team collaboration requires sharing Figma assets with AE animators

If the client provides screens in other formats (PSD, Sketch), evaluate whether to convert to Figma first for a smoother AEUX export.

  

4. Preparing for AEUX Export & Plugin Installation

4.1 Installing the AEUX Plugin

AEUX is a free Figma to AE plugin that enables seamless asset transfer.

To install AEUX:

  1. Visit the official AEUX install guide:
    https://google.github.io/AEUX/install.html#after-effects

  2. Follow the instructions provided on the page; all steps are documented clearly.

  3. Ensure you install:

    • The AEUX Figma plugin

    • The AEUX extension for After Effects

  4. Restart Figma and After Effects after installation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7u77JmnqnUI (Link to AEUX installation video) 

Note: If AEUX does not appear in your Figma plugins list, confirm the installation path in the link above and restart the apps.


4.2 Preparing for Export

Once AEUX is installed:

  1. Clean your Figma file:

    • Remove unused layers

    • Make sure all elements are named logically

  2. Select the frames/scenes you want to export

  3. Open the AEUX plugin

  4. Export selected frames
    AEUX will transfer:

    • Layer hierarchy

    • Vectors

    • Groups

    • Positioning information

This setup ensures that After Effects imports exactly what you designed in Figma.


4.3 Exporting Frames Using AEUX

  1. Open the AEUX plugin in Figma.

  2. Select frames or components to export.

  3. Click Export, which will transfer the following into AE:

    • Layer hierarchy

    • Vectors

    • Groups

    • Positioning and alignment

Tips:

  • Export in batches if the file has many screens

  • Keep your naming consistent for easier animation in AE

  • Double-check all assets are included (images, vectors, text layers)

5. Benefits of This Workflow

  • Time Savings: No need to manually recreate layers in AE

  • Accuracy: Figma design fidelity is preserved

  • Easier Asset Management: All layers and elements are automatically grouped and structured

  • Collaboration-Friendly: Designers and animators can work in parallel without losing design intent


6. Best Practices

  • Keep Figma files organized and named clearly

  • Use components and reusable elements for repeated assets

  • Avoid excessive nested groups, as these can complicate AEUX export

  • Regularly check for missing layers after export

  • Use placeholders for images or icons that will be updated later

7. Conclusion

This workflow allows us to maximize efficiency and maintain design fidelity from Figma to After Effects. By using AEUX:

  • We reduce repetitive work and setup time in AE

  • Maintain accurate layer structure and asset integrity

  • Accelerate the animation process for multiple screens or UI projects

As design tools and plugins evolve, staying informed about new features and techniques is crucial. This workflow may adapt in the future, but the principle of clean, structured, and efficient Figma → AE import remains core to our process.