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Rive has two main editing modes: Design and Animate.
  • Design Mode is for creating, editing, importing, and rigging objects.
  • Animate Mode is for creating timelines, state machines, keys, and animation logic.
Use the Mode Toggle in the toolbar, or press Tab, to switch between modes.

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Avoiding Accidental Keys

When you’re in Animate Mode, some edits can create animation keys depending on what is selected. If a timeline is selected, changes to animatable properties may be keyed automatically. This can happen when you move, resize, rotate, recolor, or otherwise edit an object while working in a timeline.
Before making design changes, make sure you’re in Design Mode, or make sure a timeline is not selected.

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When to Use Design Mode

Use Design Mode when you want to change the default design of your file. Common design changes include:
  • Creating or deleting objects
  • Moving, resizing, or rotating objects
  • Editing fills, strokes, and shape properties
  • Importing assets
  • Adding bones, constraints, or other rigging

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When to Use Animate Mode

Use Animate Mode when you want to create animation behavior. Common animation tasks include:
  • Creating timelines
  • Creating state machines
  • Adding keys
  • Editing key values
  • Setting up transitions, listeners, and animation logic