How to Use Canva Website Templates in Squarespace: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Akim Perminov

Founder & Lead Designer

Creating a cohesive and visually appealing website on Squarespace often involves incorporating custom graphics and designs. Canva, a user-friendly graphic design tool, offers a plethora of templates that can be tailored to fit the aesthetic of any Squarespace site. By utilizing Canva's diverse array of templates, users have the ability to craft unique visuals without needing extensive design experience. This process enhances the website's appeal and establishes a distinct brand identity.

Integrating Canva designs into Squarespace is a straightforward task that requires a few specific steps. Users must select a template compatible with the Squarespace platform, customize the design to their liking in Canva, and then seamlessly import these designs into their Squarespace site. This integration ensures that the website remains visually coherent and provides a smooth transition for any updates or changes made to the graphics.

Key Takeaways

  • Canva templates can be easily customized to suit Squarespace sites.

  • The integration of Canva designs into Squarespace enhances brand identity.

  • Designs should maintain visual consistency throughout the website.

Understanding Canva and Squarespace

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6QcG8HNlA0&embed=true

When I approach website design, I find the synergy between Canva and Squarespace to be an invaluable asset. Canva is a graphic design platform that is user-friendly and provides a variety of templates and tools for creating digital graphics. On the other hand, Squarespace is a website builder known for its sleek templates and drag-and-drop functionality, allowing users to create professional-looking websites.

To effectively use Canva with Squarespace, it’s important to understand their complementary capabilities:

  • Canva provides flexibility in designing custom graphics, which can include logos, headers, banners, and social media posts.

  • Squarespace allows for these customized graphics to be integrated into your website seamlessly, promoting a cohesive brand identity.

Integrating Canva designs into a Squarespace site involves a couple of steps which I find straightforward:

  1. Create or choose a Canva design.

  2. Download the design in the appropriate format (e.g., PNG, JPG).

  3. Upload the graphic to Squarespace and place it where you desire.

There are some considerations to keep in mind when I use Canva templates in Squarespace to ensure a smooth process:

  • Ensure that the dimensions and resolution of the graphics from Canva match the requirements of the Squarespace website.

  • Be aware that while Canva offers significant creative freedom, certain design elements may not always translate perfectly onto the Squarespace platform, such as animations.

Overall, by utilizing Canva's extensive design capabilities alongside Squarespace's robust website building tools, I can craft web experiences that are both visually appealing and functionally sound.

Creating a Canva Account


When I decide to enhance my Squarespace website with custom graphics, Canva is my go-to tool. Here's a straightforward guide to setting up a Canva account:

Step 1: Navigate to CanvaTo get started, I head over to the Canva homepage.

Step 2: Sign UpI am greeted with the option to sign up for free. Here are the ways I can create an account:

  • Email: I input my email address and choose a password.

  • Google: I register using my Google account for quick access.

  • Facebook: I use my Facebook credentials to sign up effortlessly.

Step 3: Account VerificationOnce I enter my details, Canva may ask me to verify my email. I make sure to check my inbox and click the verification link.

Step 4: Getting StartedAfter verifying, I am taken through a quick tutorial which reveals useful features I can take advantage of.

Step 5: Template SelectionWith an account ready, I now have access to a wealth of Canva website templates that can be customized and exported for use in Squarespace.

Here's a quick checklist I follow:

  • Navigate to the Canva website.

  • Choose a sign-up method.

  • Enter and verify my information.

  • Familiarize myself with Canva's interface.

  • Begin browsing templates.

By following these steps, I ensure my account is ready for all my design needs on Squarespace.

Navigating Canva Templates


When I select a Canva template for my Squarespace site, I start by ensuring it aligns with my website's theme and goals. Canva offers a wide range of templates suitable for different website sections, from homepages to about pages. To navigate these templates, I follow these steps:

  1. Log in to my Canva account.

  2. Navigate to the 'Templates' section on the homepage.

  3. Use the search bar to find specific templates by entering keywords relevant to my website's purpose.

Here's a quick reference table I created to simplify my search:

Search KeywordTemplate TypePortfolioVisual showcaseBlog HeaderArticle introductionsContact PageUser interactions

After finding a suitable template, I click on it, which brings me into the Canva editor. Here, I customize:

  • Text: Adjust font size, type, and color

  • Images: Incorporate own photos or stock images

  • Elements: Add icons or shapes to enhance the design

I save my design periodically to avoid losing any changes. Once I'm satisfied, I download the design in a format compatible with Squarespace, typically a JPEG or PNG.

Remember, my Squarespace template should complement the Canva template I've chosen; they should work together to create a cohesive visual experience on my website.

Preparing the Design for Squarespace

When I choose to incorporate a Canva template into my Squarespace website, I start by selecting a design that aligns with my brand's aesthetic. It's important to ensure that template compatibility with Squarespace is confirmed. Here's how I break down my process:

1. Template Selection:

  • I choose a template that matches the theme of my website.

  • I verify that the design elements are transferrable to Squarespace.

2. Customization in Canva:

  • I personalize the template with my brand colors and fonts.

  • I make sure to download the design in a Squarespace-compatible format, typically as a PNG or JPG.

3. Reviewing the Design Elements:

  • I double-check that all text is legible and images are of high resolution.

  • I take note of any complex elements that may require HTML or CSS adjustments in Squarespace.

4. File Preparation:

  • If the design includes multiple elements, I group them appropriately.

  • For seamless transitions, I ensure proper labeling of all files.

By meticulously preparing the Canva design before importing it into Squarespace, I set the stage for a smooth integration. Remember, while Canva is a powerful design tool, not all features may be supported directly in Squarespace. For instance, if you learn how to use Canva website templates in Squarespace, you’ll find the importance of considering Squarespace’s own limitations and modifying the design accordingly. Finally, I always preview the imported design on my site to confirm that everything displays as planned.

Integrating Canva Designs into Squarespace

When I create visual content with Canva for my Squarespace website, I enjoy a seamless integration process that enhances my site's aesthetic appeal. First, I ensure my Canva template is compatible with Squarespace's format. I prefer designs with simple elements to avoid transfer issues.

Here's the process I follow:

  1. Design Creation: In Canva, I select or create a design that reflects my brand and message.

  2. Downloading: Once my design is perfect, I download it in a format supported by Squarespace, typically PNG or JPG for images, and PDF for documents.

  3. Uploading to Squarespace: In my Squarespace editor, I can easily upload the Canva design file to the desired page or as a site-wide element like a logo or footer.

For design elements with interactive features, like embedded videos or widgets, Canva provides an embed code which I directly insert into my Squarespace page using the Embed Block. This allows me to present dynamic content such as maps or forms designed in Canva.

Here's a quick table summarizing the steps:

StepActionTip1Create/Select design in CanvaKeep brand consistency2Download designPNG or JPG for images, PDF for documents3Upload to SquarespaceUse Image Block for images, Embed Block for code

By using these straightforward steps, I've been able to enhance my Squarespace site with custom graphics without any hassle. It's important to review the design on my site to ensure everything appears as expected once integrated.

Maintaining Visual Consistency

When incorporating Canva website templates into Squarespace, I prioritize maintaining a cohesive visual theme. It’s essential for my brand identity to be easily recognizable across all pages. Here's how I achieve this harmony:

  1. Color Palette: I always start by defining a color scheme that aligns with my brand. In Canva, I select templates that complement my chosen colors, ensuring they’re mirrored in my Squarespace site.

  2. Fonts and Typography: Consistency in fonts keeps my pages fluid and professional. I use the same font pairings from Canva in Squarespace, matching headers and body text accordingly.

  3. Imagery Alignment: The images I choose in Canva templates must align with those on my website. Whether they’re photographic or illustrative, keeping a uniform style is crucial.

  4. Layout Structures: To keep things familiar for my visitors, I maintain similar layout patterns. If my Canva template uses a three-column structure, I replicate that in Squarespace.

By adhering to these guidelines, I ensure that my website's aesthetic is consistent and my brand identity remains clear. Remember, visitors often appreciate and expect a seamless visual experience when they navigate through a website.

Updating Designs on Squarespace

When I want to refresh my Squarespace website with a new look, I often turn to Canva for creative design templates. Here's how I update my designs on Squarespace using Canva:

1. Export from Canva:

  • First, I ensure my design is complete in Canva.

  • Then, I download the design elements I need, typically as PNG or JPG files for images, or PDF for documents, ensuring they match Squarespace's recommended file formats and size guidelines.

2. Import to Squarespace:

  • I log into my Squarespace account and navigate to the page I want to update.

  • Using the 'Image Block' or 'Banner' settings, I upload the new Canva designs.

3. Adjust and Preview:

  • After uploading, I adjust the placement and size of the images within Squarespace to ensure they fit well and are visually appealing.

  • I use the 'Preview' mode to see how the design looks on different device screens – desktop, tablet, and mobile.

4. Save and Refresh:

  • Once satisfied with the appearance, I click 'Save' to apply the changes.

  • I always refresh the page and view the live site to ensure that the update appears exactly as intended.

Updating website designs on Squarespace using Canva is straightforward if you follow these steps. This process keeps my website looking fresh and professional, reflecting the latest trends and my personal style.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, I'll address some common inquiries you might have when using Canva website templates in combination with Squarespace.

How can I integrate Canva designs into my Squarespace site?

Integrating Canva designs into your Squarespace site involves downloading your Canva graphics as images or PDFs and then uploading them to your Squarespace pages or as part of gallery blocks, depending on where you want them to appear.

What steps should I follow to embed a Canva template on my website?

To embed a Canva template on your website, first design your template in Canva, export it as a PNG or JPG, and upload the image to Squarespace. If you're using a button or another interactive element, you may need to add corresponding Squarespace features to retain interactivity.

Is it possible to export HTML from Canva to use on Squarespace?

Currently, Canva does not support exporting designs as HTML directly. You can only download images or PDFs to use within your Squarespace website, not HTML code.

Can I legally use Canva images on my Squarespace site?

Yes, you can legally use Canva images on your Squarespace site as long as the images are part of Canva's free or premium content that you have the rights to use. Be sure to check Canva's license agreements to confirm the images are cleared for your intended use.

What is the process for adding Canva HTML to Squarespace pages?

Since Canva does not provide HTML code, you won’t be able to add Canva HTML directly. However, you can upload images as media on Squarespace pages or use Canva to design elements and place them manually on your site.

Are there any limitations when using Canva templates with Squarespace?

When using Canva templates with Squarespace, be aware that not all Canva features may be supported, such as animation. Some elements might also look different due to the limitations of static images, and interactive elements will require additional configuration in Squarespace.

Gain an advantage

Having trouble with making your website work? Upgrade your brand in 7 days with our agency-level Squarespace templates!

Gain an advantage

Having trouble with making your website work? Upgrade your brand in 7 days with our agency-level Squarespace templates!