Creating a custom Gutenberg block in WordPress is easier than you think. This guide will show you how. Let’s get started.

What is a Gutenberg Block?

Gutenberg is the new editor in WordPress. It uses blocks to create content. Each piece of content is a block. For example, a paragraph, an image, or a video.

Why Create a Custom Block?

Sometimes, the default blocks are not enough. You may want something special. A custom block can do that. It can add unique features to your site.

Tools You Need

• WordPress installed
• Basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
• A text editor like VS Code
• Node.js installed

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Step 1: Set Up Your Environment

First, you need to set up your environment. Follow these steps:

1. Open your terminal or command prompt.
2. Navigate to your WordPress theme folder.
3. Create a new folder for your block.
4. Run npm init to create a package.json file.
5. Install the required packages with npm install @wordpress/scripts --save-dev.

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Step 2: Create the Block Files

Now, you need to create the block files. Follow these steps:

1. Create a new file called block.json. This file will describe your block.
2. Create a new folder called src. Inside this folder, create a file called index.js. This file will contain your block code.
3. Create a new file called style.css. This file will contain your block styles.
4. Create a new file called editor.css. This file will contain your block editor styles.

Step 3: Define the Block

Next, you need to define your block. Follow these steps:

1. Open block.json. Add the following code:

{
    "apiVersion": 2,
    "name": "custom/block-name",
    "title": "Custom Block",
    "category": "common",
    "icon": "smiley",
    "description": "A custom block.",
    "attributes": {
        "content": {
            "type": "string",
            "source": "html",
            "selector": "p"
        }
    },
    "supports": {
        "html": false
    },
    "textdomain": "custom-block",
    "editorScript": "file:./build/index.js",
    "editorStyle": "file:./editor.css",
    "style": "file:./style.css"
}

Step 4: Register the Block

Now, you need to register your block. Follow these steps:

1. Open index.js. Add the following code:

import { registerBlockType } from '@wordpress/blocks';
import { RichText } from '@wordpress/block-editor';

registerBlockType( 'custom/block-name', {
    edit: ( props ) => {
        const { attributes: { content }, setAttributes } = props;
        const onChangeContent = ( newContent ) => {
            setAttributes( { content: newContent } );
        };

        return (
            
        );
    },
    save: ( props ) => {
        const { attributes: { content } } = props;
        return ;
    },
} );

Step 5: Add Styles

Next, you need to add styles. Follow these steps:

1. Open style.css. Add your block styles.
2. Open editor.css. Add your editor styles.

Step 6: Build the Block

Now, you need to build your block. Follow these steps:

1. Open your package.json file.
2. Add the following script:

"scripts": {
    "build": "wp-scripts build",
    "start": "wp-scripts start"
}

1. Run npm run build to build your block.

Step 7: Test Your Block

Finally, you need to test your block. Follow these steps:

1. Open your WordPress admin panel.
2. Create or edit a post.
3. Add your custom block. Check if it works as expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Start Creating A Custom Gutenberg Block?

Start by installing the necessary tools like Node. js and npm. Then set up your development environment.

What Tools Do I Need To Create A Custom Block?

You need Node. js, npm, and WordPress’s block editor. These are essential for development.

Can I Create A Custom Block Without Coding Skills?

Basic coding knowledge is required. You need to understand JavaScript, PHP, and WordPress functions.

How Long Does It Take To Create A Custom Block?

It depends on your coding skills. Usually, it takes a few hours to a day.

Conclusion

Creating a custom Gutenberg block in WordPress is not hard. Follow these steps. You will have your custom block ready soon. Happy coding!