You will learn
- How to add video content blocks to your email
- How to link videos and generate thumbnails
- How to format video display
Overview of the video block
Videos are powerful tools for increasing email engagement and driving recipients to watch important content. The modern editor includes a dedicated Video content block that makes it easy to embed video links in your emails. When you add a video link, Workshop automatically generates a clickable thumbnail that directs recipients to watch the video.
Unlike image-based videos, the Video block creates an interactive element that shows a preview thumbnail with a play button overlay, enticing recipients to click through to view your video content.
Adding a video block to your email
To include a video in your email:
- Click the Build tab (the grid icon) in the left panel.
- Select the Content section to view available content blocks.
- Locate and click the Video block.
- Drag the Video block into your email canvas where you want it to appear.
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The Video block will appear with a placeholder area in your email.
Linking your video
After adding the Video block:
- Click on the Video block to select it.
- A settings panel will appear on the left or right side of the editor.
- In the Video URL field, paste the link to your video (YouTube, Vimeo, or other supported video platforms).
- Click Enter on your keyboard or "Done" at the top of the side panel to apply the video link.
- Workshop automatically generates a thumbnail image from your video and displays a play button overlay. You can alter the thumbnail image by selecting "Replace Thumbnail" below the preview.
Tip: Make sure your video URL is publicly accessible. Private or restricted videos won't generate a thumbnail. Test the link before sending your email to ensure it works correctly.
Customizing your video display
The Video block allows you to customize the size of your video and how it displays:
Button options
- Play button overlay: Toggle on/off to display a play button overlay on top of your thumbnail.
- Button Theme: Allows you to choose between a light and dark button display.
- Button Shape: Let's you choose the preferred shape of your play button
Padding
- If "Apply to all sides" is selected, adjusting your padding will alter the entirety of your video preview display. This is the preferred option when centering your video preview
- If unselected, you can adjust each side of your video preview window individually.
Best practices for video emails
- Keep video files short (under 2 minutes) to maintain engagement.
- Always include a compelling description or headline above the video to explain what recipients will see.
- Test your email in multiple email clients to ensure the thumbnail displays correctly.
- Use high-quality video content with clear audio and visuals.
- Ensure your video link is properly formatted and tested before sending.
- Consider including a fallback text link (using the Button block) in case the thumbnail doesn't display.
- Add a Heading or Paragraph block above the video to provide context.
Supported video platforms
Workshop supports video blocks from the following platforms:
- YouTube
- Vimeo
- Self-hosted video links (with publicly accessible URLs)
- Other video platforms with embeddable URLs
Tip: If using a self-hosted video, ensure the URL is direct and publicly accessible. Test the link in an incognito browser window to confirm it works for external users.
Troubleshooting video blocks
If your video thumbnail isn't generating:
- Verify the video URL is correct and publicly accessible.
- Ensure the video platform supports thumbnail generation.
- Try copying the URL again and pasting it into the Video URL field.
- If the issue persists, use the Button block as an alternative with a manual image thumbnail.