Video tutorial on how to setup an addon

[kolibril13]

Here’s the process I use to set up my extension workflow on Mac to build Blender extensions.

Does this project currently accept contributions? If yes, I can also submit this as a pull request.

1. Install the Addon
   Install the Blender VSCode Addon.

2. Enable Reload on Save
   Go to VS Code settings and enable:
   Blender › Addon: Reload On Save

3. Create a New Addon

   • Ensure the folder is completely empty.
   • Press Command + Shift + P
   • Select Blender: New Addon
   • Choose the "Simple" Template
   • Enter a name for your addon
   • Ensure Blender version is 4.2 or greater.

4. Add a Minimal Button Script
   Paste a basic script for a button into the generated template.

5. Build and Start the Addon

   • Press Command + Shift + P
   • Select Blender: Build and Start

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Video tutorial about this setup:

extension_vs_code.mp4

[Mateusz-Grzelinski]

I am relatively active in the project.
So you want to make a "getting started" page? I am not against it, but I would need to review our docs, currently I am on the phone.

[kolibril13]

Great to hear @Mateusz-Grzelinski !
Yes, that's something I'm planning.
Two question that came into my mind:
In the drop-down menu, what's the difference between "Simple" and "With auto Load"?
I always selected "Simple" but still had auto reload when enabling "Addon: Reload On Save" in the VS Code section.

[Mateusz-Grzelinski]

hm, that is really not documented? xD

the simple uses this as starting point https://github.com/JacquesLucke/blender_vscode/tree/master/pythonFiles/templates/addons/simple

the auto load uses this as starting point https://github.com/JacquesLucke/blender_vscode/tree/master/pythonFiles/templates/addons/with_auto_load -> it has a bit oh custom code that automatically registers blender related classes so that you do not have to do it manually.

Ensure Blender version is 4.2 or greater.

We try to support 2.8, it more or less works. The classic addons (pre 4.2) are supported.

[kolibril13]

That's great to hear!
I also thought about rephrasing the overall structure of the README while preserving the content using ChatGPT. Would you have the time for such a contribution as well? Here's a preview for the first paragraph. I've reviewed it and it looks good:

[Mateusz-Grzelinski]

what can I say. Looks reasonable.