When you open a new project with no layouts yet, Instant shows a How would you like to start? overlay. You can use Instant AI, pick a template, or start from a blank canvas. All three lead to the same editor.
Prerequisites
An Instant account and a project (a Shopify connection is recommended but not required to start designing).
Choose how to start
On the How would you like to start? overlay, pick one option:
Instant AI — Opens the Agent and starts a new chat. Describe the page you want in plain language and Instant AI builds it. This uses AI credits.
Choose a Template — Opens the Template Library with pre-made layouts. Select one and customize it.
Build from Scratch — Creates a blank page and opens the Insert panel so you can add sections and elements yourself.
You can create more layouts later from the Layouts & layers panel.
Find your way around the builder
The builder has three main areas:
Canvas (center) — A live preview of your layout. Click elements to select them.
Left sidebar — Switch between panels:
Project — Your project overview and the Layouts & layers panel, where you manage every layout.
Insert — Add prebuilt sections, elements, or open the Template Library.
Agent — Chat with Instant AI to build or edit layouts.
Right panel — Design settings for the selected element (content, style, and layout).
Additional panels — Brand styles, Assets, and more — live under the builder's more (⋯) menu.
Build your page step by step
Start a page layout using one of the three options above.
Add content — Open Insert and browse prebuilt sections, or ask Instant AI to add a section.
Edit elements — Select an element on the canvas to change text, images, colors, and spacing in the right panel.
Connect Shopify content — Link product cards, collection grids, and images to live Shopify data. If Shopify isn't connected, Instant prompts you to connect first.
Preview — The canvas updates as you edit. Use the responsive controls in the header to check mobile and desktop.
Your work saves automatically as you edit.
Using Instant AI for your first page
Open the Agent and try a prompt like:
Create a page with a single product hero section
Instant AI builds the layout on the canvas, and you can follow up with edits like "Change the background to white." AI tasks use AI credits from your plan. See Build pages with AI.
Tips
Start with Choose a Template for a polished result quickly.
Use Build from Scratch when you know exactly which sections you need.
Name your layout in Layouts & layers so you can find it later.
Troubleshooting
I can't connect Shopify products
Connect your store first. See Connect your Shopify store.