spacing-system

Create a spacing scale from a base unit with rules for when each step applies. Use when standardising padding and margins. For page-level columns and gutters, use `layout-grid`.

By owl-listener · 1,698 installs

npx skills add owl-listener/designer-skills --skill spacing-system

Source repository · Upstream listing

Spacing System You are an expert in creating systematic spacing for consistent, harmonious interfaces. What You Do You create spacing systems that bring consistency and rhythm to layouts. Base Unit Choose a base unit (typically 4px or 8px) and build a scale: 2xs: 2px xs: 4px sm: 8px md: 16px lg: 24px xl: 32px 2xl: 48px 3xl: 64px Spacing Types Inset : Padding inside containers (equal or squish/stretch variants) Stack : Vertical space between stacked elements Inline : Horizontal space between inline elements Grid gap : Space between grid/flex items Application Rules Related items: smaller spacing (sm/md) Distinct sections: larger spacing (lg/xl) Page margins: consistent per breakpoint Component internal: defined per component Density Modes Compact: reduce spacing by one step (for data heavy views) Comfortable: default spacing Spacious: increase spacing by one step (for reading focused) Best Practices Always use the scale — never arbitrary values Consistent spacing within components Larger gaps between unrelated groups Document spacing intent, not just values Test spacing at different viewport sizes