Contributing to open source isn't just for developers—designers play an important role in making open-source projects more user-friendly, visually appealing, and accessible. If you’re a designer and want to get started, this guide is for you!
- Impact: Improve user experience for projects used by thousands or even millions.
- Collaboration: Work with developers and other designers around the world.
- Portfolio Building: Contribute to real projects and showcase your work.
- Learning: Gain new skills in working with diverse teams and tools.
- UI/UX Design: Design new features, refine existing layouts, or create wireframes.
- Graphic Design: Design social media assets or promotional graphics for project launches.
- Documentation Design: Create diagrams to make complex ideas easier to understand.
- Website Design: Ensure responsive design for better mobile and tablet experiences.
- User Testing: Conduct user testing to help teams understand pain points and improve the user flow.
- Find an Open Source Project: Look for projects actively looking for designers.
- Communicate with the Team: Introduce yourself in the project’s communication channels (GitHub Discussions, Slack, etc.).
- Pick a Design Task: Look for tasks labelled
designorUXunder the project’s issues. - Submit Your Work: Once your work is ready, submit an issue with your designs or suggestions. (for a start, you don't need to create a pr)
Watch this YouTube tutorial we created for you to learn how designers can contribute to open source:
How to Contribute to Open Source as a Designer
No contribution is too small—whether it’s a logo, a wireframe, or feedback on an interface. Dive in, share your creativity, and make open source a more beautiful place!
If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to ask questions in the community—designers are just as essential as open-source developers. 😊