How to Use Penpot

Getting started with Penpot

In this guide, you'll learn how to create designs and prototypes using Penpot, an open-source platform prioritising collaboration and privacy. By the end, you'll be able to set up your account, create your first design, and share it with your team for feedback.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Go to Penpot's website.
2. Click on the "Get Started" button in the top right corner.
3. Select "Sign up" to create a free account. You can sign up using your email or through Google.
4. After signing up, check your email for a verification link and click it to activate your account.
5. Log in to your new Penpot account.

Step 2: Your first design

1. Once logged in, click on the "Create a new project" button on your dashboard.
2. Enter a name for your project and select a template or start from scratch.
3. Use the left sidebar to access tools like Shapes, Text, and Images to start building your design.
4. Drag and drop elements onto the canvas to create your layout.
5. To create an interactive prototype, select the "Prototype" tab at the top, then link frames by clicking on elements and dragging arrows to their target frames.

Step 3: Get better results

1. Explore the "Assets" panel to find reusable components and styles that can speed up your design process.
2. Use the "Comments" feature to gather feedback directly on your design. Click the speech bubble icon in the top right corner to enable commenting.
3. Adjust your design settings by clicking on the gear icon to set grid, snapping, and other options to enhance your workflow.

Pro tip

Take advantage of the "Version History" feature located under the "File" menu. This allows you to revert to previous versions of your design, saving time if you need to undo changes.

Common mistake to avoid

Avoid neglecting to set up your project’s permissions. Before sharing your design, ensure you adjust the sharing settings by clicking on the "Share" button and selecting the appropriate access levels for collaborators.