Webflow 2024: Building a Multi-Language Website from Scratch

Step 1: Planning Your Multi-Language Website

Begin by determining which languages you intend to support. Decide the specific content elements like text, images, and buttons that require translation. Consider how users will switch between languages, whether through dropdown menus, flags, or language links.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Webflow Project

Log into your Webflow account or sign up for a new one. Select 'New Project' from the dashboard. Choose either a template or start with a blank canvas for full customization. Give your project a name and choose a domain, or use a Webflow subdomain for testing.

Step 3: Designing Your Website Layout

In the Webflow Designer, drag and drop elements to create a header, main content area, and footer. Design with scalability in mind, avoiding fixed widths to accommodate text variations in different languages. Integrate a language switcher in your header with buttons or links.

Step 4: Adding Content for Each Language

Duplicate text blocks for different language versions, organizing them into separate layers. Utilize classes or IDs to differentiate content by language, such as "heading-en" for English. Adjust visibility settings using Webflow's interactions to reveal or hide content based on the selected language.

Step 5: Setting Up the Language Switcher

In your header, create buttons or links for each language. Use Webflow's interactions feature to set click actions for toggling visibility. Clicking "English" should show content with English class and hide other language content. Verify that the switcher correctly toggles content in Preview mode.

Step 6: Adding Translated Content

Translate your website content into targeted languages, ensuring accuracy through professional translators or tools. Replace text blocks in each language section with the translated versions, including buttons and calls to action.

Step 7: Testing Your Multi-Language Website

Preview your website in Webflow, testing navigation and ensuring proper display across languages. Check layout consistency, link functionality, and obtain feedback from native speakers to identify any translation or usability issues.

Step 8: Publishing Your Website

Once testing is complete, publish your website by hitting the 'Publish' button. Share the link with your audience, promoting the multi-language functionality. Keep monitoring feedback to make necessary adjustments for an enhanced user experience.