Getting Started with Shadcn/Ui

When it comes to building modern UIs, finding the right balance between speed and customization can feel like threading a needle.

That's where shadcn/ui steps in, a flexible set of React components that gives you pre-built solutions while handing you full control of the code. Think of it as a toolbox for startups and dev teams who want to move fast without sacrificing the freedom to shape their application exactly as they envision.

Traditional component libraries often come with rigid APIs or limited styling options, while shadcn/ui offers a different approach. These components live directly in your project codebase, built on trusted dependencies like Radix UI and Tailwind CSS; using these components means you take true ownership of them.

Here's the trade-off: you'll need to roll up your sleeves for manual maintenance. And sure, there's potential for some code duplication.

This setup offers unmatched flexibility.

For startups navigating tight deadlines and custom requirements, this can be truly transformational. shadcn/ui gives you a head start while keeping you firmly in control.

But, as with most things in tech, there's a balance to strike. More control means more responsibility. It's all about deciding what matters most for your workflow.

Setting Up Shadcn/Ui in Your Project

To get started with shadcn/ui, you'll need a few tools in place. First, confirm that you've got Node.js 18 or higher installed; this is non-negotiable.

Once that's sorted, it's time to set up your Next.js project, which will serve as the foundation for everything else.

Run the following command to scaffold a new Next.js application with TypeScript, Tailwind CSS, and ESLint pre-configured:

npx create-next-app@latest my-app --typescript --tailwind --eslint

Navigate to your project directory:

cd my-app

Next, you'll need to install and configure Tailwind CSS.
Install the required dependencies:

npm install -D tailwindcss postcss autoprefixer

Then initialize Tailwind to generate a tailwind.config.js file:

npx tailwindcss init -p

After that, update the tailwind.config.js file to include your app and component directories for content scanning:

module.exports = {
  content: [
    "./app/**/*.{js,ts,jsx,tsx}",
    "./components/**/*.{js,ts,jsx,tsx}",
  ],
  theme: {
    extend: {},
  },
  plugins: [],
};

Now add Tailwind's base, components, and utilities directives to your styles/globals.css file:

@tailwind base;
@tailwind components;
@tailwind utilities;

With Tailwind in place, it's time for shadcn/ui,
Initialize it with:

npx shadcn-ui@latest init

The CLI will walk you through creating a components.json file. This is where you'll define and manage the components you add later.

Speaking of components, adding one is as simple as:

npx shadcn-ui@latest add button

To use the new button, import it into your app:

import { Button } from "@/components/ui/button";

export default function Home() {
  return (
    <div>
      <Button>Click me</Button>
    </div>
  );
}

Customization is where the magic happens. All components are fully editable, so if you need to tweak props or add dynamic behavior, the code is yours to modify.

Start your development server with:

npm run dev

Visit http://localhost:3000 in your browser, and you're off to the races.

That's all it takes to bring shadcn/ui into your project, simple, flexible, and ready to adapt.

Maintaining Shadcn/Ui Components

Maintaining shadcn/ui components is all about staying proactive. Since these components live directly in your project's codebase, they demand more care than traditional external libraries. This extra responsibility gives you complete ownership and flexibility.

To keep things running smoothly, here are a few things to focus on.

First, keep an eye on updates from core libraries like Radix UI and Tailwind CSS. These are the backbone of shadcn/ui components, and changes in them could impact your app. Regularly reviewing release notes and applying updates ensures compatibility and gives you access to the latest features.

Dependency or styling issues can sneak up on you over time. When they do, dig into the component code and troubleshoot in a controlled environment, like a staging branch. This minimizes the risk of breaking production.

Testing updates in isolation or with tools like Storybook can help you identify and resolve conflicts early.

Organization stands out as another critical aspect. Structure your component files logically and consistently. A cluttered codebase makes updates a nightmare. Using version control is non-negotiable: it lets you track changes, roll back when needed, and collaborate seamlessly with your team.

Don’t skip the small stuff. Even minor bugs can compound into bigger issues if ignored.

Proactively fixing problems and refining your components keeps your app stable and scalable.

Ongoing maintenance might feel tedious at times since it comes with the freedom to build something truly unique. And if you're intentional about it, the payoff is a codebase that's clean, reliable, and ready to grow with your startup.

Improving and Extending Your UI

Recapping your journey with shadcn/ui, it's clear how much potential this tool offers for tech-savvy startups looking to build adaptable, beautiful UIs. From setting up your project with ease to customizing components for unique needs, this component library puts control firmly in your hands.

Creating a UI that evolves alongside your app helps ensure your product can adapt as your needs change.

We've also touched on the importance of maintaining these components. Keeping up with updates, managing dependencies, and fostering collaboration ensures your UI stays scalable and strong.

The flexibility and ownership you gain far outweigh the extra effort required over plug-and-play libraries.

Ultimately, shadcn/ui is a tool that rewards startups willing to invest a little extra time for a lot more creative freedom. It's perfect for teams that value control and want their app to stand out in competitive markets.

If you're exploring ways to bring your idea to life or need help turning your vision into a production-ready MVP, NextBuild specializes in rapid app development, giving startups a head start in the market.

Transform your app idea into reality by reaching out to our team today.