5 WAYS: How to Add Videos to a Squarespace Website

About this Squarespace video tutorial

Adding video to your Squarespace website can enhance engagement, improve storytelling, and create a more dynamic user experience. There are several ways to integrate video, and in this guide, I’ll walk you through five different methods to do just that, using my own YouTube channel page as an example.

Timestamps

0:34 - Adding videos with the video block
1:44 - Embedding a video
2:37 - Gallery style videos
4:11 - Using a video as a background
5:20 - Uploading videos to your site


Want 20% off your new Squarespace subscription?

Subscribe to the Designing the Row® email list and get the exclusive code sent straight to your inbox. You’ll get email updates when new Squarespace tutorials are published, but you can unsubscribe at any time.


    1. Video Block (The Easiest Method)

    The Video Block is the most straightforward way to add a video to your Squarespace site.

    1. Navigate to the page where you want to add a video and enter Edit Mode.

    2. Click Add Block and select Video.

    3. Click the pencil icon to edit the block.

    4. Choose to upload a file or add a video link from YouTube or Vimeo.

    5. Resize and position the video block as needed.

    The Video Block is ideal for placing individual videos within your website content.

    2. Embed Block (Alternative to Video Block)

    The Embed Block functions similarly to the Video Block, but it allows for more flexibility.

    1. Click Add Block and select Embed.

    2. Click the pencil icon, then select Embed Link.

    3. Paste your YouTube or Vimeo URL.

    The main difference between the Embed Block and Video Block is that the Video Block automatically displays a Watch on YouTube button, while the Embed Block does not. This could be a factor in deciding which method best suits your needs.

    3. Gallery Block (For Multiple Videos)

    The Gallery Block isn't just for images—you can also use it to display multiple videos in a grid layout.

    1. Click Add Block and select Gallery.

    2. Click the pencil icon, then select Upload Media.

    3. Click the plus icon in the bottom right corner to choose Add Video.

    4. Paste your YouTube or Vimeo URL.

    Customizations include:

    • Aspect Ratio: Adjust how thumbnails appear.

    • Title Display: Choose whether or not to show video titles.

    • Padding & Layout: Modify the spacing and positioning of videos.

    • Lightbox Mode: Enable videos to open in a pop-up window.

    If you have multiple videos to showcase, the Gallery Block can be a great alternative to individual video blocks.

    4. Background Video (For a Dynamic Look)

    You can use video as a background instead of a static image to add movement to your design.

    1. Navigate to a section of your page and click Edit Section.

    2. Go to Background, then select Add Video.

    3. Choose an uploaded video or paste a YouTube or Vimeo URL.

    4. Adjust playback speed and other settings.

    Keep in mind that background videos do not have sound, so they should be used primarily for aesthetic purposes.

    5. Uploading Video Files Directly to Squarespace

    Instead of embedding from YouTube or Vimeo, you can upload video files directly to Squarespace. This is useful if you want to host exclusive video content.

    1. Click Add Block, then select Video.

    2. Choose Upload File and select an MP4, M4V, or MOV file.

    3. Note that videos must be under 30 minutes, and file limits depend on your Squarespace plan.

    Once uploaded, your video is stored in your website asset library and can be used across multiple pages, including as a background video.

    Bonus: Looping Autoplay Videos

    If you want a video to autoplay and loop, follow these steps:

    1. Add a Video Block and select Upload from Library.

    2. Click Mute Video (autoplay only works with muted videos).

    3. Enable Autoplay and Loop.

    4. Hide player controls for a seamless, animated effect.

    This method works well for adding subtle motion to your homepage or feature sections.

    Which Method is Best for You?

    Each method serves a different purpose:

    • Video Block: Best for adding a single video within your content.

    • Embed Block: A cleaner alternative with no YouTube branding.

    • Gallery Block: Ideal for displaying multiple videos in a grid layout.

    • Background Video: Great for aesthetic impact without sound.

    • Direct Upload: Best for hosting exclusive content directly on your site.

    Now that you know all five methods, which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments! And if you're looking for more Squarespace tutorials, check out some of my other video tutorials linked below!


    The latest Designing the Row tutorials…


    Katherine Forbes

    Katherine Forbes is the founder of Nashville based website and brand design company, Designing the Row. Her client roster has grown to include GRAMMY Nominated & Award Winning Artists, New York Times Best Selling Authors, Film Composers, Reality TV Personalities, & many more! She is known for her clean and simple design style and is recognized as a Squarespace Expert and Squarespace Authorized Trainer. She is also the creator of music community, Music Biz Besties, and teaches digital music marketing as an adjunct professor at ETSU.

    Her work has been featured on Forbes.com and she’s spoken on panels hosted by YELP, the Music Business Association, Women in Music, and many others.

    Katherine believes that "your success depends on you taking action" and she's passionate about motivating and encouraging others to do just that!

    https://www.designingtherow.com
    Previous
    Previous

    How To Create Blogs Using Squarespace (Step-By-Step)

    Next
    Next

    How to Create a Gym Website in Less Than 30 Minutes (Squarespace Kilpsan template)