Canvas Override Documentation

A Drupal module that adds per-content layout editing to the Canvas page builder, giving editors the freedom to customise individual pages without affecting the content type default.

What is Canvas Override?

The Canvas module provides a visual page-building experience for Drupal. By default, Canvas layouts are defined at the content type level through ContentTemplates — every page of that type shares the same layout structure.

Canvas Override extends this by allowing per-content layout overrides. Think of it as the difference between a shared content type display and per-content Layout Builder overrides, but for Canvas.

Key Features

• Per-Content Layouts: Give individual pages their own unique Canvas layout while other content keeps the shared default
• Visual Editing: Use the full Canvas drag-and-drop editor to compose per-content layouts
• Field Linking: Connect component properties to entity fields so content updates are reflected automatically
• Automatic Fallback: Content without a custom layout falls back to the ContentTemplate default
• Granular Permissions: Control who can create overrides on a per-content-type basis
• One-Click Reset: Revert any page to the default layout when overrides are no longer needed
• Zero Schema Changes: The field_canvas_layout field is created and configured automatically when you enable Canvas Override on a content type

Getting Started

For Site Builders and Content Editors

If you manage content or build page layouts:

• Installation and Setup — Get Canvas Override installed and running
• Editing Per-Content Layouts — Learn how to use the Canvas tab to build custom page layouts
• Use Cases — Real-world scenarios and workflows

For Site Administrators

If you configure content types, permissions, and site settings:

• Configuration — Enable Canvas Override on content types and manage settings
• Permissions — Understand the three-tier permission system
• Troubleshooting — Common issues and solutions

For Developers

If you are extending or integrating with Canvas Override:

• Architecture — How Canvas Override integrates with Canvas and Drupal
• Services and Extension Points — Service decorators, hooks, and extension points
• API Reference — Key classes, methods, and constants

Quick Links

• FAQ — Frequently asked questions
• Drupal.org Project Page — Downloads and releases
• Canvas Module — The parent page builder module
• Issue Queue — Report bugs and request features

Need Help?

• Check the FAQ for common questions
• Review the relevant documentation section based on your role
• Visit the issue queue for support