What is Full Site Editing (FSE)?
Full Site Editing is a set of features in WordPress that allows you to edit all parts of your website – including headers, footers, sidebars, and page templates – using the block editor, the same interface used for creating posts and pages. This means you can design your entire site visually, using drag-and-drop blocks.
To use FSE, your site must be running a block-based theme, such as Twenty Twenty-Five or any theme built specifically for FSE.
Understanding the Block Editor
At the heart of Full Site Editing is the block editor, also known as Gutenberg. Every piece of content – text, images, buttons, videos, columns – is a block. Blocks can be rearranged, styled, and customized individually, giving you granular control over your layout.
In FSE, blocks aren’t limited to content areas. You can now use them in headers, footers, and even navigation menus. This unified editing experience makes it easier to maintain a consistent design across your site.
When working with the Block Editor, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the Document Overview feature. Document Overview allows you to see all of the blocks in your page – including nested blocks. This is a powerful way to see the underlying layout structure of your blocks.
Templates
One of the most powerful aspects of FSE is the ability to edit templates.
Templates define the layout of specific types of pages, such as your homepage, single post, archive, or 404 page. You can create custom templates or modify existing ones to suit your needs.
To access templates, go to Appearance > Editor in your WordPress dashboard. From there, you can browse and edit templates using the block editor.
Pages and Global Styles
While templates control the structure, pages are where your content lives. With FSE, you can design pages using blocks and assign them to custom templates for unique layouts.
Global Styles allow you to control the look and feel of your entire site from one place. You can set typography, colors, spacing, and more—either globally or for individual blocks. This ensures consistency and saves time when making design changes.
To access Global Styles, click the Styles icon (a half-shaded circle) in the top-right corner of the Site Editor. From there, you can adjust:
- Fonts and font sizes
- Color palettes
- Block-specific styles (e.g., buttons, headings)
- Layout settings like padding and margins
It’s also possible to change styles on a page-by-page basis by selecting a block and then adjusting style attributes in the “Block” settings.
Patterns: Pre-Designed Layouts
Block patterns are pre-designed layouts made up of multiple blocks. They’re a great way to quickly add complex sections like hero banners, testimonials, or pricing tables without starting from scratch.
You can insert patterns into any page or template by clicking the “+” icon in the editor and browsing the Patterns tab. Many themes come with built-in patterns, and you can also find free patterns in the WordPress Pattern Directory.
Advanced users can even create and save their own custom patterns for reuse across the site.
Common Ways to Customize Your Site with FSE
Here are some popular ways users take advantage of Full Site Editing:
- Design a Custom Homepage Layout
Design a unique homepage using blocks, patterns, and custom templates. Add hero sections, call-to-action buttons, and featured posts. - Personalize Your Site’s Headers and Footers
Modify your site’s header to include a custom logo, navigation menu, and social icons. Update the footer with contact info, newsletter sign-up forms, or copyright text. - Stylize Your Blog Archives Page
Customize your blog archive template to display posts in a grid, add category filters, or highlight featured content. - Use Global Styles to Create a Consistent Visual Brand
Set your brand colors and fonts globally so every page and block reflects your identity.
Next Steps: Start to Use Full Site Editing in WordPress!
Embracing Full Site Editing can streamline your workflow and unlock new creative possibilities. To get started using Full Site Editing, go to Appearance > Editor in your WordPress dashboard.
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