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.
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Install
Works with every agent the skills CLI supports.
npx skills add https://github.com/owl-listener/designer-skills --skill spacing-system- 01
Install
Run the command in your project. The CLI asks which agents to install for.
- 02
Describe the task
Ask your agent for something this skill covers. It loads spacing-system automatically when relevant.
- 03
Review the result
The agent follows the SKILL.md steps, scripts and references bundled with the skill.
SKILL.md
The instructions your agent reads when the skill is triggered.
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
FAQ
What does the spacing-system skill do?
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.
How do I install spacing-system?
Run npx skills add https://github.com/owl-listener/designer-skills --skill spacing-system in your project. The skills CLI detects the agents you use and copies the skill into the right folder. For Claude Code you can also place the skill folder at ~/.claude/skills/spacing-system/ (personal) or .claude/skills/spacing-system/ (project).
Which AI agents can use spacing-system?
Any agent that supports the open Agent Skills format (a folder with a SKILL.md file), including Claude Code, Codex, Cursor, GitHub Copilot, Gemini CLI, Windsurf, Cline, OpenCode and more.
Is spacing-system safe to install?
No partner security audit is available yet. Skills can run commands and scripts, so read the SKILL.md and any bundled files before installing.
Who maintains spacing-system?
It is published by owl-listener in owl-listener/designer-skills. It has 2,319 recorded installs.
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