Bind data and use expressions
A binding tells a layer which project value to display. Bindings let one design produce a complete deck without copying the layout for every card.
Assign a dataset
Open the design’s data settings and choose a dataset. The row picker then becomes available in the Designer header.
Select a text or image layer, open Data bindings, and choose the matching column. Preview several rows immediately; a correct column name does not guarantee that every value fits the layout.
Use a direct binding first
Direct bindings are easiest to understand and maintain:
- Card title layer →
Title - Artwork layer →
Image - Cost label →
Cost - Rarity frame →
Rarity color
Use an expression only when the displayed value needs formatting or combines more than one source.
What expressions do
Expressions can insert values into text, add conditions, format numbers, choose between values, and perform supported calculations. They belong to a bound Designer field; they are not a dataset column type.
The expression help button in the Designer lists available functions and examples. The expression reference explains common patterns in consumer language.
Build expressions safely
- Start from working plain text.
- Add one value or condition.
- Preview a row where the condition is true and one where it is false.
- Check blank and unusually long values.
- Keep the expression short enough that another teammate can understand it.
A binding follows the column key used by the design. Replacing a dataset or changing its column structure can break bindings even when the new spreadsheet looks similar. Check assigned designs after any structural change.
Options and generated variants
An enum/options column may make several generated variants from one dataset row. Preview each selected option, because expressions, colours, and images can change between variants.