Properties Panel: Context-Based Editing
Overview
The Properties panel is where all editing and configuration of template elements takes place in the Email Builder.
While the canvas shows the structure and content of the email, the Properties panel allows you to modify the selected element. It provides a dynamic editing interface that changes based on what you select, enabling precise control over both layout and content.
Understanding how the Properties panel works is essential for editing templates efficiently and accurately.
Where to find the Properties panel
The Properties panel is located on the right side of the Email Builder editor.
It becomes active when you select any element on the canvas, including:
- layout elements (Section, Columns)
- content elements (Blocks such as text, image, button, etc.)
Context-based behavior
The Properties panel is context-based, meaning its content changes depending on what is selected.
For example:
- selecting a text block shows text editing and formatting options
- selecting an image block shows image-related settings
- selecting a button block shows link and styling controls
- selecting a layout element shows structural and spacing options
This ensures that only relevant settings are displayed at any time.
What can be edited
The Properties panel allows you to control multiple aspects of the selected element, including:
Content
- text content
- image selection
- link configuration
Styling
- colors
- typography
- alignment
- spacing
Layout behavior
- positioning
- padding and margins
- structural adjustments (for layout elements)
These settings allow you to fine-tune each part of the template without affecting the rest of the design.
How editing works
Editing follows a simple interaction model:
- Select an element on the canvas
- The Properties panel updates automatically
- Modify settings in the panel
- Changes are reflected immediately in the template
This real-time feedback makes it easier to experiment and adjust designs quickly.
Relationship with other builder components
The Properties panel works together with:
- Layout and Blocks → defines what can be edited
- Styles tab → defines global styling rules
While global styles provide consistency, the Properties panel allows element-level customization.
Why the Properties panel matters
The Properties panel is the main control point for editing templates.
It allows you to:
- make precise adjustments to individual elements
- customize content without rebuilding layout
- control visual details across the template
- manage changes efficiently within a single interface
Without it, editing would require direct manipulation of each element without structured controls.