How to add Catalog to a Netlify CMS website

Embed Catalog on Netlify CMS

01

Create a Catalog plugin for Netlify CMS on Common Ninja

First, create a Netlify CMS Catalog plugin on Common Ninja. On the plugins catalog, find the Catalog and enter the Editor.

02

Save the Catalog plugin

When you're done creating the Catalog plugin, click on the Save Changes button at the right top corner of the editor. If you don't have an account on Common Ninja, you'll have to register first.

03

Copy the Catalog Embed Code

When you're ready to add the Catalog plugin to your Netlify CMS website, click the Add To Website button at the top bar of the Editor. On the window that opens, click the Copy Icon to copy the plugin embed code. In the next steps, you will paste this code into your Netlify CMS website.

04

Paste the code to your Netlify CMS website’s HTML field.

Next, go to your Netlify CMS website editor and find the HTML field. It is most likely in the form of an HTML/Code widget or module which you can find on the Netlify CMS’s editor. Add it to your page, and paste the Catalog Embed Code you’ve copied before to the HTML field. Save and update, and that’s it, you should have Common Ninja’s Catalog plugin on your Netlify CMS website.

05

Alternative Method 1: Through the HTML option in the text’s editing area.

If you can't find the HTML/Code widget or module, there's another way to put Common Ninja’s Catalog plugin on your Netlify CMS plugin. You can just add the code to a special HTML section in the text editor.

06

Alternative Method 2: Add it directly to your Netlify CMS website’s HTML code.

If you're having trouble finding a widget or a special part in your text editor where you can add the Embed Code, you can try a different way to add the Catalog plugin to your Netlify CMS website. You can do this by putting it straight into your Netlify CMS website's HTML code.

Why Use This Widget

Use the Catalog widget when you have many items to present and want a structured, browsable directory instead of scattered product blocks. A catalog organizes entries with images, titles, descriptions, and filters, making it easier for visitors to find what fits their needs. This works for physical products, digital assets, services, courses, or any collection that benefits from clear categorization. You can control how items are grouped and highlighted, which supports merchandising and discovery. A well designed catalog keeps users exploring longer, reduces frustration, and creates a feeling that your offering is both broad and thoughtfully organized.

This tutorial was written by the Common Ninja product team, creators of interactive, no-code widgets for Netlify CMS website. Common Ninja helps over 500,000 users build engaging online experiences without coding.