Insights and Inspiration – The Hostnicker Blog

Building Webflow Forms with Custom Error Messages

September 25, 2024

Step 1: Setting Up Your Webflow Project

Login to your Webflow account and create a new project or open an existing one. Choose a blank canvas or a template that meets your design needs.

Step 2: Adding a Form Block

In the Webflow Designer, click the "+" icon on the left sidebar to open the Add panel. Scroll down to the Forms section. Drag and drop the Form Block onto your canvas where you want the form to appear.

Step 3: Customizing Your Form Fields

Inside the Form Block, default fields such as Name, Email, and Message are present. Add or remove fields as needed. To add a new field, click on Add Field. Options include Text Field, Text Area, Checkbox, or Radio Buttons. Click on each field to adjust settings in the right sidebar, such as renaming fields, changing placeholder text, and making fields required.

Step 4: Styling Your Form

Select the Form Block to customize its appearance. Use the right sidebar to adjust styles, including background color, borders, padding, and typography. Style each individual field to match your overall design aesthetic.

Step 5: Implementing Custom Error Messages

Set up custom error messages by clicking on a form field and navigating to the Settings tab in the right sidebar. In the Validation section, input custom error messages. For required fields, you might say "Please enter your email address." For invalid formats, use "Please enter a valid email address."

Step 6: Setting Up Form Submission Responses

Ensure a good interaction after form submission by clicking on the Form Block. In the Settings tab, scroll to the Form Submission section. Choose whether to redirect users to a thank-you page or display an on-page message upon submission.

Step 7: Testing Your Form

Save changes and preview the form by clicking on the eye icon at the top left. Test the form by leaving required fields empty to check if your custom error messages appear. Enter incorrect information to verify that validation messages display correctly, ensuring smooth guidance for users.

Step 8: Publishing Your Project

When satisfied with the form, publish your project by clicking on the Publish button at the top right. Your form is live and ready for interaction. Monitor form submissions to see how users engage with your form.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can build engaging forms in Webflow that effectively guide users. Focus on keeping error messages clear and friendly to encourage form completion without frustration. Enjoy designing your forms and improving user interaction.