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why can't i resize an instance in figma
HeyBraza spots why your instance won't resize and points at the constraint or auto-layout setting that's holding it.
you grab an instance, drag a handle, and it snaps back or refuses to change - classic figma frustration. an instance can only resize the way its main component allows, so the fix is almost always a constraint or resizing setting on the original, not a bug.
short answer
check the resizing setting in the right panel first - 'hug' or 'fixed' is usually why it won't stretch. if the instance has auto layout, set the inner layers to 'fill'; if it's a constraints problem, fix it on the main component rather than the instance.
or do it yourself
- 1select the instance and check the right panel - if width/height are set to 'hug' or 'fixed', that's why it won't stretch.
- 2if it has auto layout, switch the resizing of the inner layers to 'fill' so they grow with the frame.
- 3for a stubborn dimension, open the main component (right-click → 'go to main component') and fix its constraints there.
- 4set the inner elements' constraints to 'left & right' / 'top & bottom' so they scale, not pin.
- 5go back to your instance - it now resizes the way you expected.
steps last checked
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downloadcommon questions
why does my instance snap back when i resize it?
its layers are set to 'hug' or 'fixed', or the main component's constraints pin them - change those and it'll resize.
can i resize an instance differently from the main component?
yes, but only within what the main allows; set inner layers to 'fill' and use scaling constraints on the main to unlock it.
