How to Finsweet Like a Pro

Finsweet’s Client First framework is a game-changer for building scalable, maintainable websites with Webflow. However, many developers miss out on the key elements that set apart a truly exceptional Webflow build. In this guide, I’ll dive into how you can leverage Client First like a pro, making your workflow more efficient and your projects more impressive.

Clear class naming conventions

Utilizing more utility classes can significantly streamline your development process, ensuring consistency and reusability across your project. Utility classes handle common styles like margins and padding, making your workflow more efficient.

Custom classes, on the other hand, should be used sparingly for unique elements that require specific styling.

Global classes are ideal for styles that need to be applied across multiple pages, while combo classes help you create variations without duplicating code.

Project Structure

A well-organized project structure is essential for scalable and maintainable Webflow builds. Adopting a component-based build approach allows you to create reusable elements, enhancing both efficiency and consistency.

1. Multi-Level Folder Structure:
   • Client-First encourages using a folder-based structure to group and organize elements within your project.
   • This approach helps you find classes more easily and maintain a clear hierarchy.
2. Component-Based Approach:
   • Organize your styles around components (blocks, elements, and modifiers) to enhance modularity and reusability.
   • For example, you might have a .button component with modifiers like .button--primary and .button--secondary.
3. Global Styles and Variable:
   • Utilize global classes and color variables to maintain consistency across your project.
   • Global classes are reusable styles that can be applied to multiple instances without creating new classes each time.

By focusing on a scalable, component-based structure and effective use of variables, you'll create Webflow projects that are easy to manage and adapt over time.

Structured Layout

In Finsweet’s Client First methodology, mastering Grid and Flexbox is essential for creating clean, responsive, and scalable layouts. By using Grid and Flex styles to create gaps around elements, you can avoid the need for multiple divs to handle spacing. This approach leads to fewer divs and less nesting. For instance, apply  .padding-section-[size] to .padding-global to manage padding efficiently.

Building semantically correct and accessible HTML structures is crucial for usability and SEO. Incorporate Finsweet elements with semantic HTML tags, such as using .main-wrapper with the <main> tag, to enhance accessibility and improve SEO.

Responsive Design

1. REM Units for Accessibility and Responsiveness:
   • Client-First uses REM units for spacing and sizing. This choice improves accessibility and responsiveness across different devices.
   • REM units are relative to the root font size, making them adaptable to changes in font size settings.
2. Utilize Flexbox and Grid:
   • Leverage Webflow's Flexbox and Grid systems to create responsive layouts. These tools offer robust control over alignment, spacing, and distribution of elements across different screen sizes.
   • Use Flexbox for simpler, one-dimensional layouts (rows or columns).
   • Use Grid for complex, two-dimensional layouts.

Mastering Finsweet’s Client First methodology elevates your Webflow development with clear class naming, structured layouts, and responsive design principles. Use REM units and Grid/Flexbox for scalable, flexible designs across all devices. Implement these strategies to streamline your workflow and deliver high-quality, accessible websites.