How can I import a complete template into an existing Webflow project that already has CMS hosting set up?
TL;DR
- Webflow doesn't support importing templates into existing projects, so you must open both the template and your existing project in separate tabs.
- Manually copy/paste design elements, recreate CMS Collections and fields, and transfer custom code, interactions, styles, and symbols as needed.
You cannot import a complete Webflow template directly into an existing project that already has CMS hosting. Webflow does not support merging templates or projects. However, you can manually copy key elements from the template into your existing project.
1. Understand Webflow’s Project Limitations
- Webflow does not allow full project or template imports into an existing site.
- Each Webflow template is its own standalone project.
- You cannot duplicate an entire project into another or merge two projects automatically.
2. Open Template and Existing Project in Two Tabs
- Create a new Webflow project using the template you want to use.
- Open your existing CMS-hosted project in a separate browser tab.
- You'll copy elements manually from the template to your existing project.
3. Use the Copy/Paste Workflow
- Webflow supports cross-project copy/paste of elements in the Designer.
- In the template project, select the element you'd like to transfer (e.g., Navbar, Section, CMS Collection Page design).
- Press Cmd+C (Mac) or Ctrl+C (Windows).
- Switch to your existing project and paste using Cmd+V or Ctrl+V.
- This works for most content like layouts, symbols, and CMS page designs — but you must manually recreate Collections.
4. Recreate CMS Collections and Fields Manually
- CMS Collections from the template will not copy over—you must manually recreate them in your existing project.
- Go to CMS → Collections → Create New Collection, and match the fields used in the template.
- Once set up, re-bind any Collection Lists or Dynamic Elements after pasting template layouts.
5. Recreate Symbols, Interactions, and Styles
- Symbols and interactions from the template project can be copied, but be sure to paste them into your existing project and reconfigure as needed.
- Pay attention to global classes, fonts, and color swatches. You may need to recreate or update these to match the template design.
6. Copy Custom Code (if applicable)
- If the template includes custom code in the page settings or project settings, open both projects and manually copy/paste code blocks into the matching settings in your existing project.
- Go to Project Settings → Custom Code or Page Settings → Custom Code to make changes.
Summary
Webflow doesn't let you fully import a template into an existing project. To use parts of a template, open both projects side by side and manually copy design elements, recreating any CMS or project settings as needed.