How to Create a Collection Carousel in Shopify Editor

A collection carousel displays your product collections in a sliding format, allowing customers to browse through categories horizontally instead of a static grid. This creates a more engaging shopping experience and saves valuable homepage space.

Creating collection carousels in 2025 is easier than ever, especially with Shopify’s new themes that include built-in carousel features.

Methods

Method 1: Horizon Framework Themes

Best for: New stores or those willing to switch themes

If you’re using any of the new Horizon themes, you have built-in carousel support:

1. Access Theme Editor: Go to Online Store > Themes > Customize
2. Add Section: Click “Add section” and select “Collection list: Carousel”
3. Select Collections: Choose up to 8 collections from the dropdown menus
4. Configure Settings:
   • Enable “Enable desktop slider”
   • Set collections per row (3-4 recommended)
   • Turn on “Swipe on mobile”
5. Save and Publish

Method 2: Dawn and Other Shopify 2.0 Themes

Best for: Existing stores with Dawn, Sense, or similar themes

1. Add Collection List Section: In theme editor, add “Collection list” section
2. Enable Carousel Features: Look for these settings:
   • Turn ON “Enable desktop slider”
   • Set “Columns on desktop” to 3-4
   • Enable “Swipe on mobile”
3. Select Your Collections: Choose collections from the dropdown menus
4. Customize Display: Adjust heading, image ratios, and spacing

Alternative: Add multiple “Featured collection” sections with slider settings enabled.

Method 3: Using Shopify’s AI Assistant (Horizon Themes Only)

Best for: Custom carousel requirements

1. Access AI Generator: In theme editor, click “Add section” then “Generate with AI”
2. Describe Your Needs: Type: “Create a collection carousel showing 4 product categories in sliding format”
3. Review and Add: Let AI generate the section, then customize as needed

Method 4: Shopify Apps

Best for: Themes without native carousel support

Popular options:

• PageFly (page builder with carousels)
• Slider Revolution
• Collection Carousels by Bold

1. Install app from Shopify App Store
2. Follow app’s setup instructions
3. Add carousel through app interface

Conclusion

Creating collection carousels in Shopify is now primarily a no-code process. Horizon framework themes offer the easiest solution with built-in carousel features, while older themes like Dawn still provide good options through their collection list sections.

Quick recommendation: If starting fresh, choose a Horizon theme for the best carousel experience. For existing stores, check your current theme’s collection list section for carousel options before considering apps.

A well-designed collection carousel improves navigation and helps customers discover more products, potentially increasing your sales and average order value.