Using Blocks (Gutenberg) to Display Social Feeds

WordPress has moved toward a block-based editing system called Gutenberg. Instead of pasting shortcodes manually, you can now add content using blocks.

Easy Social Feed supports this modern approach, allowing you to display your Facebook and Instagram feeds directly using Gutenberg blocks.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to display social feeds using blocks, step by step.

Before You Start

Make sure:

• Easy Social Feed is installed and activated
• Facebook or Instagram accounts are connected
• Your feed is configured properly
• You’re using the Block Editor (Gutenberg)

If everything is ready, let’s begin.

Method 1: Adding a Social Feed Using the Shortcode Block

Even in Gutenberg, you can still use shortcodes, but inside a block.

Step 1: Open a Page or Post

Go to:

Pages → Add New
or
Posts → Add New

Step 2: Add a Shortcode Block

Click the + (Add Block) button.

Step 3: Paste Your Feed Shortcode

Paste the shortcode generated from:

• Facebook → How to Use
  or
• Instagram → Shortcode tab

Click Publish.

Your feed will now display on that page.

This method works for:

• Facebook Page Feed
• Facebook Likebox
• Instagram Feed

Method 2: Using Dedicated Easy Social Feed Blocks (If Available)

Some versions of Easy Social Feed include pre-built blocks for:

• Facebook Fullwidth Feed
• Facebook Halfwidth Feed
• Facebook Thumbnail Layout

If these blocks are available:

Step 1: Click the + (Add Block)

Search for:

“Facebook”
or
“Easy Social Feed”

Step 2: Select the Desired Feed Block

Choose the block style you prefer:

• Fullwidth
• Halfwidth
• Thumbnail

Step 3: Configure Block Settings

After inserting the block, you can adjust settings from the right sidebar panel, such as:

• Page selection
• Layout
• Skin selection
• Display options

Click Update or Publish.

Your feed is now live.

Display Social Feeds in Block-Based Themes (Full Site Editing)

If you’re using a block-based theme:

1. Go to Appearance → Editor
2. Select the template (Header, Footer, Sidebar)
3. Click the + (Add Block) button
4. Add a Shortcode block or Easy Social Feed block
5. Paste your shortcode or configure settings
6. Save changes

Your feed will now appear across the selected template area.

Best Practices When Using Blocks

To ensure your layout looks clean:

• Match feed width to container width
• Use fewer columns for narrow layouts
• Test on mobile preview
• Use Skins for advanced styling
• Avoid overcrowding pages with too many feeds

Blocks give you flexibility but clean design always wins.

Shortcode vs Block: Which Should You Use?

Both methods work perfectly, it depends on your preference and theme.