How to Install and Use SASS on VsCode

If you want to level up your CSS game, SASS (Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets) is a must-learn. With SASS, you can write cleaner, more manageable stylesheets with features like variables, nesting, and mixins. The good news: getting started with SASS in VSCode is quick and painless. Here’s how.

What You’ll Need

• VSCode installed
• Node.js installed
• Basic command line skills

1. Install SASS Globally

First, you need SASS on your system. The easiest way is through npm (Node Package Manager).

Open your terminal and run:

npm install -g sass

This installs SASS globally, so you can use it in any project.

2. Open Your Project in VSCode

Fire up VSCode and open the folder where you want to use SASS.

3. Create Your SASS/SCSS Files

Inside your project, create a new folder called scss or sass. Then, create a file like style.scss.

// style.scss
$primary-color: #007acc;

body {
  background: $primary-color;
}

4. Compile SASS to CSS

SASS needs to be compiled into regular CSS so browsers can read it.

In your terminal, run:

sass scss/style.scss css/style.css

This command compiles style.scss to style.css in a css folder.

Want SASS to auto-compile whenever you save? Run:

sass --watch scss:css

Now, any changes you make in your .scss files will instantly update your CSS.

5. (Optional) Use a VSCode Extension

You can use an extension like Live Sass Compiler if you prefer not to use the terminal. Just search “Live Sass Compiler” in the Extensions tab, install, and click the “Watch Sass” button at the bottom of VSCode.

6. Link Your Compiled CSS

Make sure your HTML links to the compiled CSS, not the .scss file:

<link rel="stylesheet" href="css/style.css">

That’s It

You’re ready to rock with SASS in VSCode. Write SASS, let it compile, and watch your CSS become way easier to maintain.

Got questions or want to see more tips? Drop a comment below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!