Can I add videos to a Webflow blog using Create Collection Item API with embedded HTML code, or do I need to manually input the video URL in the Webflow Editor? Why do I receive an error message when trying to embed certain video links in Webflow?
TL;DR
- Webflow's Create Collection Item API does not support embedded HTML, only structured fields like Video Link for YouTube/Vimeo URLs.
- To add a video, use a Video Link field and provide a direct video URL (e.g.,
"video_field": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=your_video_id"). - Errors may occur if the URL format is incorrect, the video is private, or from an unsupported platform.
You can add videos to a Webflow blog using the Create Collection Item API, but embedded HTML code is not supported in the API request. Instead, Webflow only allows specific field types in its CMS API, including Video Link fields, which require a direct video URL from supported platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
1. Why You Can't Use Embedded HTML in API Requests
- Webflow's CMS API only accepts structured data types: Fields like rich text, plain text, image, and video link are allowed, but raw HTML embeds are not supported.
- Security and formatting restrictions: Webflow restricts API inputs to prevent malicious code execution, ensuring your content stays structured and adheres to Webflow's design constraints.
2. How to Add Videos via API
- Use a Video Link field in your CMS Collection instead of trying to embed HTML.
- Send the video URL (e.g., YouTube or Vimeo link) in the API request:
- Example:
"video_field": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=your_video_id" - Do not attempt to insert
<iframe>or<embed>directly, as these are not supported.
3. Why You Receive an Error with Certain Video Links
- Unsupported sources: Webflow only supports YouTube, Vimeo, or other officially allowed platforms for its Video Link field.
- Incorrect URL format: Ensure you're using a direct video URL (e.g.,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example) and not a shortened or private link. - Restricted access: If a YouTube video is private, region-blocked, or has embedding disabled, Webflow may reject the link.
Summary
You must use a direct video URL (YouTube/Vimeo) in a Video Link field via the Create Collection Item API. Embedded HTML is not allowed in the API request due to Webflow’s security and formatting constraints. If you receive errors, check that your video URL is valid, public, and from a supported source.