CSS frameworks represent the building blocks of many diverse web projects. A well constructed CSS framework or boilerplate can simplify and streamline the development of a web site. This type of framework quickens the pace of development by offering a structure of files and folders of standardized code (HTML, CSS, JS documents, and more). These frameworks provide a basis to start building a web site.

There are hundreds of devices that are used to access the web. These devices have different capabilities and constraints, such as screen dimensions, input style, resolution, and form. As more and more users access the web through different devices, in particular tablets and smartphones, developers need tools to build websites. The important of catering for different devices should not be underestimated. In a few countries, mobile web traffic has already overtaken traffic from traditional computers.

Some of the lightweight frameworks featured in this article are well publicised, but there are many good tiny frameworks that you may not have heard of that are perfectly suited for small projects.

The purpose of this article is to list the finest open source lightweight frameworks to kick start CSS and HTML projects. They help to save precious time by saving designers from writing base CSS styles, and solving problematic layout issues. They also have the virtue of lightweight CSS files which reduce queries and load, and benefit visitors on narrowband connections. We have also included a couple of the finest open source boilerplates. All it takes is a few minutes to get to grips with these frameworks, and you will be able to design some awesome websites which conform with best practice.

Now, let’s explore the 10 lightweight tools at hand. For each title we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, together with links to relevant resources and reviews.

Lightweight CSS Frameworks & Boilerplates Quantum Framework Exceptionally versatile and advanced framework Pure Small, responsive CSS modules Baseline Built around the idea of a "real" baseline grid HTML KickStart Rapidly create website layouts Base Super simple responsive framework KNACSS Simple and lightweight CSS framework Cascade Framework Tiny footprint but similar features to Twitter Bootstrap and Foundation Toast Simple CSS Framework Motherplate Bare bones SCSS HTML5 responsive boilerplate HTML5 Boilerplate HTML5/CSS/JS front-end template

Return to our complete collection of recommended free and open source software including our latest additions.

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