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How do I create a WordPress theme from scratch?

Last updated on September 24, 2022 @ 11:58 pm

Creating a WordPress theme from scratch can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s not impossible. In this article, we’ll outline the steps you need to take to create a theme from scratch, and provide a few resources to help you along the way.

The first step is to create a basic skeleton theme. A skeleton theme is simply a template that provides the foundation for your theme.

You can use it to start designing your theme, or to reference while building it.

PRO TIP: If you are new to WordPress, we recommend that you start with a theme that is already designed and coded. While it is possible to create a WordPress theme from scratch, it is a lot of work and can be very confusing if you are not familiar with coding.

Once you have a skeleton theme created, you’ll need to create a custom header, background, and footer. These elements will define the look and feel of your theme, and you’ll need to decide on a layout and design.

Next, you’ll need to create your theme’s functions. Functions allow you to create custom features and behaviors for your theme, and to share them with other theme developers.

Finally, you’ll need to add your theme to your WordPress site. This involves registering your theme with WordPress, and adding a few lines of code to your site’s theme file.

Morgan Bash

Morgan Bash

Technology enthusiast and Co-Founder of Women Coders SF.