Sketch launches its biggest update in years with Stacks, Frames & new component workflows

Sketch Athens update introduces major foundational changes, starting with Stacks, a new layout tool for building flexible, content-responsive interfaces. Pretty much like Auto-Layout in Figma or Framer, Stacks offer control over padding, alignment, distribution, and styling, with options for individual elements to align independently, fill space, or ignore layout rules.

Frames will replace traditional artboards as the main container for UI design, just like in Figma. They support nested layouts, custom styles, resizing constraints, and stack layouts. For icons and illustrations, the new Graphics container keeps fixed proportions, resizes content automatically, and includes a simplified Inspector. Groups are still available for organizing layers without layout behavior.

Workflow tools also get upgrades. The Command Bar now enables quick insertion of components like Symbols, Text Styles, Templates, Layer Styles, and Color Variables using new shortcuts. Swapping components is easier with ⌥⌘R and an updated popover that includes richer previews, keyboard navigation, and more context. Symbol thumbnails now support light/dark backgrounds and improved previews. Over 100 additional improvements are included in the release notes.