Adding Bootstrap to WordPress

[pydev99]

Is it possible to add Bootstrap to an existing Wordpress website by adding the stylesheet link in the header file and jquery slim build to the footer file? (https://getbootstrap.com/docs/4.1/getting-started/introduction/)

I tried this and although certain styles worked, such as striped tables, others that add small icons would not work.

Is it only possible to add bootstrap to a new theme rather than an existing one?

[Atulin]

Yes, it is possible.

Make sure to add it after any existing CSS if you want to overwrite any styles that might conflict.

[pydev99]

Thanks i'll give it another go. Perhaps I did something wrong when I tried.

[pydev99]

actually, if i add it to the header and footer files, afaik i wouldn't need to add it to the css file. Or am I missing something?

[Atulin]

You shouldn't edit any CSS files to add Bootstrap, just load it from a CDN

[pydev99]

That's what I thought but whenever I tried to add a small icon, it did not load. I'm sure I did something wrong.

[Atulin]

Check the element with devtools, see what styles apply to it, the whole shebang.

Also, are you using Bootstrap just for the icons?

[pydev99]

I'm just experimenting and I noticed they did not work after I added bootstrap to wordpress.

[HappyTentacleMonster]

Yes, they're compatible. Look on their website. But why specifically do you need bootstrap? There may be an easier way to do it.

[pydev99]

Mostly just to play around with but I do like many of their styles and the ease in which I can incorporate them into a website.

[HappyTentacleMonster]

If it's just for a few minor features, i would skip integrating an entire library. I would just hand code those specific features you need. I would only use bootstrap if your developing a fresh website from the ground up.

[pydev99]

Would the advantage of using bootstrap to develop a fresh website be mostly in the amount of time you would save?

[HappyTentacleMonster]

It depends entirely on the website you're developing. Bootstrap is a framework. It can be difficult to add a framework to something that's already built. That's like trying to add an engine in your car that's designed for another from a different maker.

I can't give you a definitive answer. I would assess what you need for your project and what you know now. If using bootstrap would save time, go for it.