The WordPress Block Editor has come a long way since it was introduced, making it easier than ever to build and customize your site without needing developer help. But even with all its features, there are times when default blocks don’t do exactly what you want such as maybe the styling feels off, or you find yourself repeating the same layout again and again. This guide shows you how to go beyond the basics and safely customize blocks to better fit your site, all without writing custom code or breaking anything. You’ll use safe tools like the Code Snippets plugin and free block-enhancing plugins to make changes that improve design, brand consistency, and efficiency.
Install Code Snippets to Safely Customize WordPress Blocks
Instead of editing functions.php (which can crash your site), use the free Code Snippets plugin:
- Go to Plugins > Add New
- Search for Code Snippets
- Install and activate it
- Go to Snippets > Add New and paste the code from this guide. You can toggle snippets on or off, and they’re safe to manage without breaking your site.
How to Style Image Blocks With Rounded Corners and Shadows
The default “Rounded” style on image blocks can look too oval. Let’s improve it with smoother corners and a light shadow:
add_action( 'init', function() {
unregister_block_style( 'core/image', 'rounded' );
register_block_style(
'core/image',
array(
'name' => 'rounded',
'label' => __( 'Rounded', 'your-text-domain' ),
'inline_style' => '
.wp-block-image.is-style-rounded img {
border-radius: 20px;
box-shadow: 0px 4px 6px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1);
}
',
)
);
});How to Create a Reusable Testimonial Block in WordPress
Want to reuse the same layout for testimonials (image, quote, name, and role)? You can create a block variation:
Create this file: /wp-content/themes/your-theme/assets/js/custom-block-variations.js
wp.domReady(() => {
wp.blocks.registerBlockVariation('core/quote', {
name: 'testimonial',
title: 'Testimonial',
description: 'A layout for customer testimonials.',
attributes: { className: 'is-style-testimonial' },
innerBlocks: [
['core/image', { align: 'center', width: 100, height: 100 }],
['core/quote'],
['core/paragraph', { placeholder: 'Name', align: 'center' }],
['core/paragraph', { placeholder: 'Company / Role', align: 'center' }]
],
scope: ['inserter'],
});
});Use Code Snippets to add this PHP:
add_action( 'enqueue_block_editor_assets', function() {
wp_enqueue_script(
'custom-block-variations',
get_template_directory_uri() . '/assets/js/custom-block-variations.js',
array( 'wp-blocks', 'wp-dom-ready', 'wp-edit-post' ),
filemtime( get_template_directory() . '/assets/js/custom-block-variations.js' ),
true
);
});This method is quite challenging if you don’t have strong technical knowledge. We advise you consult with a WP developer before setting thing up.
How to Add Custom Button Styles in WordPress Block Editor
add_action( 'init', function() {
register_block_style(
'core/button',
array(
'name' => 'primary-button',
'label' => __( 'Primary Button', 'your-text-domain' ),
'inline_style' => '
.wp-block-button.is-style-primary-button .wp-block-button__link {
background-color: #4D4D4D;
color: #ffffff;
padding: 12px 24px;
border-radius: 4px;
}
',
)
);
register_block_style(
'core/button',
array(
'name' => 'secondary-button',
'label' => __( 'Secondary Button', 'your-text-domain' ),
'inline_style' => '
.wp-block-button.is-style-secondary-button .wp-block-button__link {
background-color: transparent;
color: #4D4D4D;
border: 1px solid #4D4D4D;
padding: 12px 24px;
border-radius: 4px;
}
',
)
);
});Optional: Restrict Block Styling Options for Editors
add_filter('register_block_type_args', function($args, $block_type) {
if ($block_type === 'core/button') {
$args['supports']['color'] = [ 'text' => false, 'background' => false, 'link' => false ];
$args['supports']['typography'] = false;
$args['supports']['spacing'] = false;
}
return $args;
}, 10, 2);How to Use WordPress Block Patterns for Faster Page Design
Block Patterns are pre-built layouts you can insert with a click. Use them for:
- Hero sections
- Testimonials
- Pricing tables
Click the + button in the editor, go to Patterns, and choose one that fits.
How to Save and Use Reusable Blocks in WordPress
Need to reuse a CTA or contact section? Select your blocks, click the 3-dot menu, and choose Add to Reusable Blocks. You can insert this saved block anywhere, and updating one will update all.
How to Set Global Styles Using the WordPress Site Editor
Go to Appearance > Editor > Styles to change default fonts, colors, spacing site-wide. No plugins or code needed.
Best WordPress Plugins to Add More Block Design Options
Install these from Plugins > Add New:
- Stackable – modern blocks with advanced styling
- Otter Blocks – maps, forms, sliders, pricing tables
- Essential Blocks – gallery, counters, reviews, and more
These plugins expand your block library with no technical setup.
What You Can Achieve With WordPress Block Customization
- Add branded button styles (like “Primary” and “Secondary”)
- Improve the default look of image blocks (rounded corners, shadows)
- Reuse testimonial layouts across your site
- Lock down block styling to prevent brand inconsistencies
- Use block patterns, reusable blocks, and global styles to speed up content creation
- Expand design options with plugins like Stackable, Otter, or Essential Blocks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize WordPress blocks without editing code?
Yes, you can use the free Code Snippets plugin to safely add small customization scripts, or install plugins like Stackable or Otter to expand design options without touching any code.
What is the safest way to change block styles in WordPress?
The safest method is by using the Code Snippets plugin. It lets you add and manage small pieces of PHP code without editing your theme’s functions.php file, reducing the risk of breaking your site.
Are there plugins that add more blocks and features to the editor?
Yes, plugins like Stackable, Essential Blocks, and Otter Blocks give you access to dozens of professionally designed blocks—like pricing tables, testimonials, and sliders—that can be added without coding.
Final Thoughts
WordPress makes it easier than ever to create beautiful, consistent sites even without knowing code. By safely tweaking existing blocks, using ready-made layouts, and installing block plugins, you’ll gain more control over design and branding without extra tools or costs. Whether you’re running a blog, business site, or eCommerce store, these upgrades will help your WordPress site look more polished and perform better.
