KiCad 9.0 – Getting started Part 3: Create a Custom Schematic Symbol | DigiKey

In Episode 3 of our KiCad water alarm project series, follow along with Brian as we go beyond the basics and explore how to create a custom symbol in KiCad using the Symbol Editor. In this hands-on tutorial, you’ll learn how to build a buzzer symbol from scratch, organize your own symbol library, and follow best practices that ensure your symbols are easy to use, visually consistent, and compatible with KiCad’s design standards. While KiCad includes a built-in buzzer symbol, making your own teaches you how to build and manage your own libraries—an essential skill for anyone working on custom or niche PCB designs. Plus, once you know how it works, you’ll be able to create and reuse custom parts across all your future projects.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • How to open and navigate the KiCad Symbol Editor • The difference between creating and adding a symbol library • When to choose Global vs. Project libraries • How to name, save, and organize your custom symbol libraries • Step-by-step creation of a buzzer symbol with: o Symbol naming conventions o Default reference designators (we use “BZ”) o Pin placement using the 100mil rule o Pin electrical type assignment (e.g., Passive) o Drawing lines and arcs to form the symbol’s shape o Editing pin properties (length, label size, alignment)

Why This Matters: Creating your own symbols in KiCad lets you take full control of your schematic design. It’s especially helpful when you're working with components that aren't found in the default libraries or when you want more clarity and consistency in your documentation. Brian walks through the process at a beginner-friendly pace and shows how to: • Use grid settings (50mil vs. 100mil) to align and size your pins accurately • Understand dx/dy coordinates to place elements precisely • Use hotkeys like M (Move), R (Rotate), and X (Mirror) to quickly position parts • Keep your symbols standardized and clean for readability and reuse We also cover helpful habits like: • Naming your libraries (e.g., 1_Buzzers) to keep them sorted at the top • Saving your library in a defined folder (like Documents > KiCad Tools > Symbol Libraries) • Checking symbol placement using KiCad’s built-in snapping and alignment tools Coming Up Next: In Episode 4, we’ll put your newly created buzzer symbol to use in the KiCad schematic editor as we continue building the water alarm circuit. If you’re following along with the series, now’s a great time to hit subscribe so you don’t miss the next step!