A fixed set of spacing values (such as 4, 8, 12, 16, 24 px) used for margins, padding, and gaps, so the space between things stays consistent across screens instead of being eyeballed each time.
Synonyms
- spacing system
- space scale
- spacing tokens
Related terms
In plain words
- the approved list of gaps and paddings, usually multiples of a base number
Usage example
All the padding on this card comes from the spacing scale, so it lines up with everything else.
Don't confuse with…
- layout gridA spacing scale sets how big the gaps between things can be; a layout grid sets where columns and content align on the page.
Categories
- Design systems