How Spline integration with Webflow opens up a new world of interactive web experiences
Intro
Webflow has always bridged the gap between design and code. And all the fun just got even better. A fantastic new feature was introduced at Webflow Conf 2023: The integration of Spline. Now you're probably asking yourself, “What the hell is Spline?” Sit back and let me introduce you to the wonderful world of web-based 3D design. We are also clarifying the question of how this integration will influence the future of web development with Webflow.
What is Spline?
Spline is a pretty interesting design tool that specializes in creating interactive 3D graphics for the web. In contrast to conventional 3D programs, Spline is specifically designed for designers and, thanks to its ease of use, makes it possible to create impressive 3D experiences even without deep knowledge of 3D modeling.
How does integration work with Webflow?
Webflow's spline integration is more relaxed than a flat white on Sunday. With just a few clicks, you can import your 3D designs created in Spline directly into your Webflow projects. This not only saves time, but also the effort of juggling complicated export and import options.
The process is extremely simple:
- Create your 3D object in Spline or use one of the many presets
- Click on “Export” in the toolbar, select “Viewer” and copy the URL
- Jump into Webflow and drag the “Spline Scene” object into your canvas
- Paste the URL
- Done
Now you can use native Webflow Interactions and let off steam creatively. What a wild feature - RealTalk! I have a small one here Sample demo created - the whole thing took approx. 3 minutes. If you want to dive a bit deeper, you can check out the project Threedimensions from my cherished Webflow Dirk Lach watch. He really made the feature glow and created a wonderful little case study with it.
The future of web development with Webflow
No other page builder currently offers a comparable feature. This makes Webflow the central point of contact for web designers who want to offer their customers new, exciting web experiences. Spline opens doors to completely new possibilities. These include 3D animations, which were previously difficult and difficult to implement.
I myself and my colleague Tobias Peil took this tough, rocky path for our Audio Pro Case Study. In the end, it was worth it, as we finally won a web design award with it. But Spline integration would have been really handy back then.
This development also shows that Webflow is highly committed to transforming its tool into a powerful platform on which third-party providers such as Spline can build. For me, it is only a matter of time before I can use Webflow to develop frontends for Shopify, for example. But that's another topic!
Conclusion: The era of 3D web development has only just begun
Spline and Webflow make up the dynamic duo that makes my heart open as a web designer. With this effortless integration and the potential of 3D, we have an exciting time ahead of us in web development.
For us designers, this means that we can not only design flat interfaces, but also create immersive 3D experiences that inspire our customers and their users. I've always said that you can build Apple's website with Webflow 1:1. With Spline, it's even easier and more interactive!
Is Webflow and Spline exactly what you're looking for right now? Then feel free to book a free strategy discussion with me. We'll see together how we can create a unique web experience for your customers.
