Understanding Product Variants
Product variants allow you to offer different versions of the same product, giving customers options to choose from. This guide will help you master the variant system and avoid common mistakes.
Key Definitions
What is a Variant?
A variant is a product attribute that has multiple options. For example:
Color (variant) → Red, Blue, Green (options)
Size (variant) → Small, Medium, Large (options)
Material (variant) → Cotton, Linen, Silk (options)
What is an Option?
An option is a specific choice within a variant. Each option represents a complete, purchasable version of your product.
The Golden Rule: Total Pricing
⚠️ CRITICAL: The Oblist system does NOT support price adjustments or additions (+€50 or -€20). You MUST enter the FINAL TOTAL PRICE that customers will pay.
❌ Wrong Approach (System won’t accept):
Base product: €500
With frame option: +€150 (YOU CANNOT ENTER “+” PRICES)
✅ Correct Approach:
Without frame option: €500
With frame option: €650 (Calculate €500 + €150 = €650 BEFORE entering)
KEY POINT: Do ALL price calculations on paper or in a spreadsheet FIRST. The system only accepts final prices.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Identify Your Product Variations
Ask yourself: “What choices do I want to offer my customers?”
Common variations include:
For Art: With/without frame, different sizes, canvas/paper
For Furniture: Different colors, materials, sizes
For Clothing/Textiles: Colors, sizes, materials
For Accessories: Colors, sizes, materials, personalization options
Step 2: Create ALL Options
You must create an option for EVERY possible choice, including the “base” version.
Example: If you’re selling a painting that can come with or without a frame:
Create the “Without frame” option
Create the “With frame” option
Don’t just create the “extra” option!
Step 3: Set Correct Prices
Remember: Each price is the TOTAL amount the customer will pay.
Example Pricing Structure:
Painting Options: - Without frame: €500 - With oak frame: €650 - With gold leaf frame: €850
Step 4: Managing Multiple Variants
You can have up to 2 different variant types per product. The system creates all combinations automatically.
Important: In The Oblist system, you CANNOT enter price adjustments (+€50). You must enter the FINAL TOTAL PRICE for each combination.
Example: Wooden dining table with size AND color options
First, calculate all your prices OUTSIDE the system:
Small Natural oak: €800
Small Walnut: €850 (€800 + €50 upcharge)
Small Black: €875 (€800 + €75 upcharge)
Medium Natural oak: €1,000
Medium Walnut: €1,050 (€1,000 + €50)
Medium Black: €1,075 (€1,000 + €75)
Large Natural oak: €1,200
Large Walnut: €1,250 (€1,200 + €50)
Large Black: €1,275 (€1,200 + €75)
Then in the system, you’ll enter these FINAL prices for each combination.
Real-World Examples
Example 1: Art Print (Multiple Variants)
Product: Limited Edition Print
This example shows how to handle size AND framing options.
Your price calculations (do this BEFORE entering in the system):
Size | Frame Type | Calculation | Total Price to Enter |
A4 (21x30cm) | Unframed | Base | €120 |
A4 (21x30cm) | Simple black frame | €120 + €60 | €180 |
A4 (21x30cm) | Museum glass frame | €120 + €150 | €270 |
A3 (30x42cm) | Unframed | Base | €180 |
A3 (30x42cm) | Simple black frame | €180 + €60 | €240 |
A3 (30x42cm) | Museum glass frame | €180 + €150 | €330 |
A2 (42x60cm) | Unframed | Base | €280 |
A2 (42x60cm) | Simple black frame | €280 + €60 | €340 |
A2 (42x60cm) | Museum glass frame | €280 + €150 | €430 |
Example 2: Vintage Lamp
Product: 1960s Desk Lamp
Single Variant - Restoration Level:
As found (original patina): €350
Cleaned and rewired: €450
Fully restored with new shade: €550
Example 3: Handmade Ceramic Vase
Product: Artisan Ceramic Vase
Variants:
Size:
Small (15cm): €85
Medium (25cm): €125
Large (35cm): €185
Glaze:
Matte white: No adjustment
Glossy colors: +€15 to each size
Special metallic: +€35 to each size
In the system: You’ll create 2 variants (Size and Framing) and enter the prices from the last column.
Advanced Features
1. Link Photos to Variants
You can assign specific photos to each option, helping customers better visualize their selection. This is important to ensure they can easily identify the correct color, finish, material, etc. without confusion.
2. Manage Quantities per Variant
For fixed stock items, you can set different quantities for each option:
Red ceramic bowl: 3 in stock
Blue ceramic bowl: 5 in stock
Green ceramic bowl: 2 in stock
3. SKU Management
Add unique SKUs to each variant option for better inventory tracking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Only Creating the “Extra” Option
Wrong: Only creating “With frame: €150” Right: Creating both “Without frame: €500” AND “With frame: €650”
Mistake 2: Using Variants for Different Products
Variants should be versions of the SAME product, not completely different items. Wrong: Using variants for “Chair” and “Table” Right: Using variants for “Oak Chair” and “Walnut Chair”
Mistake 3: Confusing Additional Cost with Total Price
Wrong: Entering €150 for the framed version (thinking it’s +€150)
Right: Entering €650 for the framed version (€500 base + €150 frame)
Mistake 4: Too Many Variants
Keep it simple! Too many options can overwhelm customers. Stick to 2-3 options per variant.
Best Practices
Be Clear and Descriptive: Use clear option names that customers understand
Good: “Natural Oak Finish”
Bad: “Type A”
Consistent Naming: Keep your naming conventions consistent across products
Think Like a Customer: What information would help them make a decision?
Use Standard Sizes: When possible, use industry-standard sizing (S, M, L or specific measurements)
Price Logically: Ensure your pricing makes sense (larger = more expensive, premium materials = higher cost)
When NOT to Use Variants
Don’t use variants for:
Completely different products
Items that should be sold separately
Bulk quantities (use the quantity field instead)
Shipping options (handled separately at checkout)
Troubleshooting
“My variants aren’t showing up”
Make sure you’ve clicked “Done” after adding options
Ensure each option has a name
Check that you’ve enabled the features you need (price adjustments, photos, etc.)
“Customers are confused about pricing”
Double-check that you’re using TOTAL prices, not additional costs
Make sure your option names clearly describe what’s included
“I need more than 2 variant types”
Consider which variations are most important to customers
You might combine some options (e.g., “Small Red”, “Small Blue”, “Large Red”, “Large Blue”)
Need More Help?
If you’re still unsure about creating variants, here are some resources:
Contact our vendor support team at vendors@oblist.com
Remember: The variant system is designed to give your customers choices while keeping your product management simple. When in doubt, think about what would create the best shopping experience for your customers!