021 / checklist ·
Fill-or-effect shader cheat card
Tag any shader look as a fill or an effect before you write the prompt
A fill-or-effect checklist for tagging a shader look before you write the prompt.
Ask in order:
- Is there already a layer (photo, logo, shape) the look must keep? Yes → EFFECT. It changes what's underneath.
- Does the look create a new surface with nothing underneath to keep? Yes → FILL. It's a new material.
- Could it be either? Then it depends. Name the layer in your prompt.
The six looks Figma named:
| Look | Tag |
|---|---|
| Polished chrome | FILL |
| Halftone | EFFECT (your photo becomes dots) |
| Pixelation | EFFECT (same photo, blockier) |
| Particles | Depends: from empty canvas = FILL; breaking up your logo = EFFECT |
| Dithering | Not tagged in the reel. Use the questions above. |
| Frosted glass | Not tagged in the reel. Use the questions above. |
Prompt check:
- Effect: name the target. "Apply [LOOK] to [LAYER NAME]."
- Fill: name the empty shape. "Fill [SHAPE] with [LOOK]."
Tag first, then write the prompt. If you can't point to the layer, it's a fill.