How to Create Dynamic Filter Buttons in Webflow CMS Library

Creating dynamic filter buttons in Webflow CMs library can add immense functionality to your website. In this tutorial, we will go over the steps to build dynamic filter buttons using the F and sweet CMS library in Webflow. Dynamic filter buttons allow users to filter content on a website based on specific criteria, providing a more interactive and user-friendly experience. We will walk through the process of setting up the structure, applying classes, and using custom code to achieve this functionality.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, it's essential to have a basic understanding of Webflow and the Webflow CMS. Familiarity with using classes, collection lists, and custom code in Webflow will be beneficial for this tutorial.

Understanding the Live Example

The live example showcases the use of dynamic filter buttons to filter a collection list based on multi-referenced categories. The dynamic buttons are connected to a native Webflow nested collection and allow filtering based on different values. This demonstration provides a clear understanding of how dynamic filter buttons can enhance the filter functionality on a website.

Setting Up the Base Structure

To create the dynamic filter buttons in Webflow, we will start by setting up the base structure. Using the filter component in Webflow is essential for this functionality. Ensure that the collection list class is applied to the collection list, and the values for sorting are defined inside the items. It's important to note that the values can be hidden while still being functional for filtering.

Next, we need to create the dynamic filter buttons. When working with a dynamic list, adding dynamic data attributes to the buttons is not possible using the standard methods. Instead, we will utilize an add-on script to dynamically create the correct values for the filter-by attribute. This is achieved by defining specific classes and applying them to the elements.

Applying Classes for Dynamic Filter Buttons

The first class required for the add-on script to work is the "filter dynamic list." This class needs to be added to the collection list, not the collection wrapper or the collection item. It enables the script to identify the dynamic list and modify the filter buttons accordingly.

The next class needed is "filter by text," which is applied to the value of the filter-by data attribute. This class specifies the criteria for filtering and needs to be placed on the respective elements. It's important to note that the "filter by text" class can be hidden on the page, allowing flexibility in design and layout.

Custom Code Implementation

With the base structure and classes in place, custom code is used to make the dynamic filter buttons work seamlessly with the Webflow CMS library. The script is added before the closing body tag and it performs the task of dynamically creating the filter buttons based on the defined classes.

The custom code snippet retrieves the values for each element with the "filter by text" class and stores them as filter criteria. It then iterates through each button, sets the data attribute dynamically, and applies the filter criteria to the buttons. This process ensures that the buttons have the correct structure to be used with the F and sweet CMS library filter component.

Conclusion

Implementing dynamic filter buttons in Webflow using the F and sweet CMS library enhances the filtering capabilities of a website. By following the structured approach outlined in this tutorial, you can create interactive and user-friendly filter functionalities that are powered by the Webflow CMS. Dynamic filter buttons provide a valuable feature for users to refine and explore content based on specific criteria, ultimately improving the overall user experience on the website.

In summary, creating dynamic filter buttons involves setting up the base structure, applying specific classes, and utilizing custom code to integrate the functionality seamlessly. With these steps, you can elevate the filtering experience on your Webflow website, making it more engaging and efficient for visitors.