How can I delete a symbol in Webflow without deleting my original work and create a new symbol from an existing symbol?
TL;DR
- Unlink all symbol instances to preserve content, then delete the symbol from the Symbols panel.
- Select the unlinked elements and use "Create Symbol" to generate a new reusable component.
To delete a symbol in Webflow without losing your original content, and then create a new symbol from the existing content, follow these steps.
1. Understand What a Symbol Is
- A Symbol in Webflow is a reusable component. Editing one instance of it affects all instances.
- Deleting a symbol removes all instances unless you unlink it first.
2. Unlink Symbol to Preserve Original Content
- Select the symbol on the canvas.
- In the right-click menu or top bar, choose Unlink from Symbol.
- This converts the symbol back to regular elements on the page without deleting the content.
- You can do this on as many instances as you need.
3. Delete the Symbol From the Symbols Panel
- After unlinking all needed instances, go to the Symbols panel (access from the left sidebar).
- Hover over the symbol, click the three dots (•••), then choose Delete.
- Webflow will warn you if the symbol is still in use somewhere.
4. Create a New Symbol From the Unlinked Content
- Select the group of elements you'd like to turn into a new symbol.
- Right-click and select Create Symbol, or click the Create Symbol button in the top bar.
- Give your new symbol a name and it will be added to the Symbols panel.
Summary
To delete a symbol without removing your content: unlink all instances, then delete the symbol. To create a new symbol, select unlinked content and use Create Symbol. This allows you to customize and restructure symbol usage without losing any work.