How to use Webflow variables in client builds
Diego Toda de Oliveira shares how Webflow variables can streamline your client builds by reducing class clutter and enhancing animation possibilities. Discover practical applications through a detailed walkthrough of a real client project.
In this Webflow live stream, host Aaron Korenblit introduces award-winning Webflow developer Diego Toda de Oliveira, who demonstrates the power of using CSS variables in Webflow to simplify client builds. Diego explains how Webflow variables allow designers to store information like colors and fonts, which can be reused across multiple elements, making the design process cleaner and more efficient.
The session begins with Diego showcasing a recent client build, highlighting how he used variables to manage color schemes and animations seamlessly. For instance, Diego explains that by using variables, you can change the primary and secondary colors of various elements in a section by just updating the variable values, instead of creating multiple classes and combo classes.
A significant part of the session is dedicated to illustrating the benefits of using CSS variables for animations. Diego demonstrates how these variables enable animations that were previously challenging to achieve with Webflow interactions alone. For example, he showcases an SVG path animation in the footer of the client’s website, which was accomplished using a CSS variable for stroke-dash-offset, a task that would typically require external animation files.
Aaron and Diego also explore practical implementation steps, including creating variables in Webflow, associating them with different elements, and using Webflow’s interaction panel to animate these variables. This comprehensive guide helps users understand how to leverage CSS variables for more dynamic and maintainable Webflow projects.
Key takeaways
- Cleaner Design Process: Use Webflow variables to manage colors and fonts across multiple elements without creating numerous classes.
- Enhanced Animations: Achieve complex animations, such as SVG path animations, by using CSS variables in conjunction with Webflow interactions.
- Efficiency in Updates: Easily update design elements by changing variable values, which automatically propagate throughout the project.
- Real-World Application: Practical examples from a real client build demonstrate the effectiveness of variables in simplifying complex design tasks.
- Flexibility and Control: Variables provide greater flexibility and control over design elements, making it easier to maintain and update projects over time.
