Adding a background image to a single column in WordPress might sound simple, but if you’ve tried using the Columns block directly, you’ve likely noticed it doesn’t support background images by default.
That doesn’t mean you’re out of options. With a small workaround using the Group block, you can easily achieve the effect and even enhance the look of your site while you’re at it.
Let’s walk through the method step by step.
Why does the Column Block Alone Not work?
The built-in Columns block in WordPress is great for layout flexibility, but lacks direct support for background images.
You can set background colors for each column, but you’ll need to get creative if you want a background image. The best way to do that is by inserting a Group block inside your column and setting the background on that.
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Method 1: How to Add a Background Image Inside a Column Using the Group Block
Start by editing the page or post where you want to apply this layout.
Step 1: Insert the Columns Block
Click the “+” button in the editor, search for the Columns block, and select the block.
Select your desired column layout (e.g., two or three columns side by side).
Step 2: Add a Group Block Inside One Column
Click inside one of the columns, then click the plus icon (+) again and search for Group. Insert the Group block into that column. This Group will act as the container for your content and background image.
With the Group block in place, you can add other blocks inside, like text, images, or buttons. In my case, I’ve added the text content. Everything you want over the background image should go inside this Group.
Step 4: Select the Group and Set a Background Image
Click to select the Group block (you can also use the List View for easier selection)
In the right-hand settings panel, look under the Styles section.
Click Background and choose Image. Upload a new image or choose one from your media library. You’ll now see the image appear behind your content.
Use the background settings to tweak the image position, size, and repeat behavior, and for that, click on the photo in the Background Image option (1).
You can also scroll down to the Dimensions section and increase the padding to add space around your content so the background image becomes more visible.
Want each column to have its image? Just repeat the same steps for the other columns—add a Group inside each and apply a different background image.
Here is the demo below.
Method 2: How to Add a Background Image Inside a Column Using the Cover Block
The Cover block is another solid option. It’s designed to display content on top of a background image.
Follow Step no. 1 of method no. 1 above.
Now, insert the cover block inside one of the columns of the Columns block.
Select your image for the cover block.
Now add your content. You can add any content or block inside the cover block. Overall, it will be added to your columns block. For instance, I’ve added the text content.
You can edit your image from the settings tabs of the Cover block on the right side. You can modify the focal point, left and top ratios, etc.
The overlay opacity and other style options are in the Style Tab.
Below is the preview of the column background image.
Which One Should You Use?
- Use the Group block if you’re already working inside a Columns layout and want finer control over padding and background styling.
- Use the Cover block if your design focuses more on visual impact with overlay text or call-to-actions.
Both methods work beautifully; you can mix and match them depending on your design needs.
Tell us which one you used in the comment section below. Also, share this knowledge with your friends and family through social media.
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