How can I create a full width div as a symbol in Webflow to easily use on multiple pages with different background images? Thank you!
TL;DR
- Create a full-width div with internal content and a nested background div styled for layering and scaling.
- Convert the structure into a Symbol, enable an override field on the background div, and customize the background image per page instance.
To create a full-width div as a symbol in Webflow and use it on multiple pages with different background images, you need to set it up so the layout is consistent, but the background image is editable per instance.
1. Create the Full-Width Div
- Drag a Div Block onto the page.
- Set Width: 100% and optionally Max Width: None to ensure it spans the full browser width.
- Set a Height (e.g., 400px) or use padding for aspect ratio control.
- Add any internal content (text, buttons, etc.) that should appear across all instances.
2. Use a Section Wrapper (if Needed)
- If the symbol needs to span beyond the content container, wrap it in a Section element.
- Ensure the section uses Full width (100%) and no container or grid that limits its size.
3. Enable Background Image Flexibility
- Instead of setting the background image directly on the symbol div, use a nested div inside the symbol that will serve as the customizable background.
- Apply position: absolute; width: 100%; height: 100%; and z-index: -1 to the background div if layering is needed.
- Do not set a background image yet. Just style it for positioning and scaling (e.g., background-size: cover; position: center).
4. Convert to a Symbol
- Select the parent div (or Section) that includes both content and background overlay structure.
- Click Create Symbol from the top right in the Webflow Designer.
- Name it (e.g., Hero Banner, Page Header).
5. Use Symbol Overrides
- In Designer, drop your new symbol on any page.
- Select the background div within the symbol.
- In the Element Settings panel, click "Add Field to Symbol" for Background Image Style.
- This will create an override field for background image per instance.
6. Add Custom Background on Each Page
- When you place the symbol on a new page, go to the overrides panel (Symbol Settings).
- Upload or select a unique background image for that instance.
- The background will change only for that page, while the layout remains consistent.
Summary
Create the full-width symbol by structuring a responsive div with a background wrapper inside, enable background image as a Symbol override field, and then customize the image per page. This gives you reusable design with per-page visual flexibility.