Create your own unique '404 page' in Squarespace
What is a 404 page?
A 404 page (also known as a “Page Not Found” page) appears when someone tries to access a page that no longer exists.
How does that happen?
For example, you changed a URL, but somewhere else there’s still a link pointing to the old URL.
You deleted a blog post, but there’s still a link to it somewhere online.
Someone manually types an incorrect URL into their search bar.
Any of these things can happen. That’s why the 404 page was created.
The default 404 page
This is what Squarespace's default 404 page looks like:
It's not exactly something that will blow you away, so I'm sure you can make something nicer out of it.
Why create a custom 404 page?
Of course, you want to prevent people from landing on your 404 page in the first place. But if they do end up there, make it worth their while. It looks more professional than the standard “Page Not Found” text.
You can include useful information on this page that people will find helpful. And/or see it as a “free” opportunity to show people a bit of your personality.
The least you can do is provide an easy way back to your homepage.
Other reasons:
Showcase your services concisely.
Add links to your most popular blog(s).
Post a link to a popular product or challenge.
Offer a way for people to subscribe to your newsletter.
Or, most obviously, add a search option (so people can easily find what they're looking for).
You can also set an existing page as a 404 page, such as your homepage or your blog. Personally, I don’t think it’s a good idea to make it too elaborate. People were looking for something that no longer exists, and you want to let them know that—rather than presenting them with something completely different.
How do you create a 404 page?
The easiest way in Squarespace is to use a Cover Page. (Available only in 7.0) This is a single short page with no menu visible. Place your Cover Page in the "Not Linked" section.
In 7.1, you can choose a regular page and style it however you like.
You can keep it professional, matching the style of the rest of your site, or you can make it fun with a GIF, for example.
How do you set up your own 404 page?
In the left-hand menu, click on Design
Click on Not Found / 404 Page
Select your page.
Inspiration
If you’d like to check out some other 404 pages for inspiration before you get started, this is a great article.
