How can I display multi-reference field names for a CMS template in Webflow? Currently, the field is not showing as intended.
TL;DR
- Add a Nested Collection List to your CMS Template Page and set its source to the multi-reference field.
- Place a text element inside the nested list and bind it to the Name or Title field of the referenced items.
If your multi-reference field items are not displaying on a Webflow CMS template page, it likely relates to how Webflow handles multi-reference fields differently from plain text or single-reference fields.
1. Understand How Multi-Reference Fields Work
- A multi-reference field links to multiple CMS items from another collection, making it ideal for displaying lists.
- Unlike single references (which can be displayed directly using a Text element), multi-reference fields require a Nested Collection List to show associated entries.
2. Add a Nested Collection List
- Go to the CMS Template Page where you want to show your multi-reference field.
- Inside the template, add a Collection List (this becomes a nested collection when sourced from a multi-reference field).
- In the Collection source, choose the multi-reference field that you want to display.
3. Configure and Style the Nested Collection List
- Once added, you can place elements (like a Text Block) inside the nested list to display each item's name or other fields.
- Select the text element and bind it to the appropriate field, typically the Name or Title field of the referenced items.
4. Respect Nesting Limits
- Only 1 nested collection is allowed per Collection List or CMS Template Wrapper.
- You can’t reference another multi-reference field inside a nested collection — Webflow limits nesting to one level.
5. Troubleshooting Tips
- If the multi-reference field doesn't appear as a collection source, ensure:
- You're on a CMS Template Page, not a static page.
- The multi-reference field is populated for that CMS item.
- Multi-reference fields cannot be accessed directly via plain text bindings.
Summary
To display the names of a multi-reference field’s items on a CMS Template Page in Webflow, add a Nested Collection List, bind it to the multi-reference field, and then use a text element inside the list to show each item's name. These fields won't display unless handled with a nested collection.