Update README_EXT

.gitignore

@@ -1 +1,3 @@
 *.xcf
+*.blend*
+/images/utils/**

CHANGELOG

@@ -1,22 +0,0 @@
-## v1.0.2
-
-Swich from `zip` to `blender -c extension built` for building the .zip file (now without useless /addon folder in the zip).
-*This update does not impact on functionalities*
-
-## v1.0.1
-
-Update preferences identifier from `__name__` to `__package__` as documented [here](https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/dev/advanced/extensions/addons.html#user-preferences-and-package)
-*This update does not impact on functionalities*
-
-## v1.0.0
-
-This is the first official version of the extension.
-
-Current features:
-
-- Add-on preferences with the list of custom templates (each with display name & path)
-- The list of Custom Templates is added to the `File > New` menu
-- The add-on functions are added to the `File > Defaults` menu, which are:
-   1) Manage Templates (simple link to the Custom Templates add-on preferences)
-   2) Select new custom template (open a popup requesting name and path and add it to the preferences
-   3) Use current file as template (open a popup requesting name, and using the path of the current .blend file and add it to the preferences. Note: This function is only visible when a saved .blend file is currently loaded)

CHANGELOG.md

@@ -0,0 +1,107 @@
+## v1.5.0
+
+### New Features
+- New option: **`File > New > Start from...`** (opt-in from preferences)  
+  *Select any .blend file to use as template. Optionally, you save the template in your list, on the fly.*  
+- Splash Screen now supports 5+ templates with a submenu  
+
+---
+
+- Minor UI update
+    *Now use a single checkbox for switching templates in Splash Screen menu.*
+
+## v1.4.0
+
+### New Feature
+- **Add workspace** from your Custom Templates
+    *Usually, while adding a new workspace, you can choose between the workspaces of the 5 default blender templates.*
+    *Now you can also add workspaces from your Custom Templates!*
+    Right-click one of your workspaces and look for the `Add from Custom Templates` menu.
+- Minor preferences UI update
+
+*Legacy update*
+
+- *Update Splash Screen UI for legacy to match Blender <=3.6*
+
+## v1.3.1
+
+- Fix file path selector  
+    *Always use absolute path when selecting, even when a .blend file is loaded.*  
+
+## v1.3.0
+
+### New Features
+
+- Add templates from folder  
+  *Automatically add the `.blend` files from a given folder and auto-name them with the clean file name.*  
+  *(with optional recursion depth parameter, default 1)*  
+- Clear current templates (with safety confirm)  
+  *Easily remove all the current templates from the add-on preferences menu.*  
+- Auto-naming from the path (when adding from folder, or selecting the path before setting the name)  
+- Added current number of templates in the add-on preferences  
+- Update `File > Default` menu with new functions:  
+    1) Clear current templates  
+    2) Add from folder functions  
+
+## v1.2.6
+
+- Fix preferences persistence issues on restart
+- Used poll function to disable operators instead of hiding them
+
+## v1.2.5
+
+- Fix override splash preference persistence when updating from splash
+  *by marking preferences as dirty, after altering the value.*
+
+## v1.2.3 - 1.2.4
+
+- Fix Splash Screen issue after disabling the add-on
+- Remove some `INFO` messages
+- Fix index access problems in a couple of situations
+- Update classes id prefix (shorter and removing build warnings for menus naming)
+- Minor UI updates
+
+## v1.2.2
+
+Add files permission in manifest *(for import/export)*
+
+## v1.2.1
+
+Minor code refactor
+
+## v1.2.0
+
+- Implement Splash Screen 'New File' list override:
+  1) Add new preference for Splash Screen Override
+  2) Add little menu for switching between Blender's default and Custom Templates list right from the splash screen.
+  *The add-on will only show your first 5 templates (while `File > New` always shows all your templates)*
+  *If you have no custom templates, the default Blender's one will be used.*
+
+## v1.1.0
+
+- Implement Import/Export functionality (to and from json file)
+- Re-organized source code, and reduce size where possibile
+*This update does not impact on previous functionalities*
+
+## v1.0.2
+
+Swich from `zip` to `blender -c extension built` for building the .zip file (now without useless /addon folder in the zip).  
+*This update does not impact on functionalities*
+
+## v1.0.1
+
+Update preferences identifier from `__name__` to `__package__` as documented [here](https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/dev/advanced/extensions/addons.html#user-preferences-and-package)  
+*This update does not impact on functionalities*
+
+## v1.0.0
+
+This is the first official version of the extension.  
+
+Current features:
+
+- Add-on preferences with the list of custom templates (each with display name & path)
+- The list of Custom Templates is added to the `File > New` menu
+- The add-on functions are added to the `File > Defaults` menu, which are:
+   1) Manage Templates (simple link to the Custom Templates add-on preferences)
+   2) Select new custom template (open a popup requesting name and path and add it to the preferences
+   3) Use current file as template (open a popup requesting name, and using the path of the current .blend file and add it to the preferences. Note: This function is only visible when a saved .blend file is currently loaded)

README.md

@@ -1,51 +1,28 @@
-# Custom Templates - Add-On
+# Custom Templates
 
-### Have you ever wanted to customize new projects?
+## The Freedom to *Template*
 
-Custom Templates Add-On allows you to use your own .blend files as template options for new projects.
+**Custom Templates** allows you to use your own .blend files as template options for new projects.
 
-![File > New menu with the add-on custom buttons](./images/Preview%20Image.png)
+---
 
-### Why this add-on?
+- [Getting Started](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki/Getting-Started)
+- [Why this add-on?](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki/Why+this+add-on%3F.-)
+- [Support](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki/Support)
+- [Changelog](./CHANGELOG.md)
+- [Copyright](#copyright)
 
-Blender allows you to save you own .blend file to use on startup.  
+---
 
-This is great, but wouldn't it be nice to be able to create your own templates?
+![File > New menu with the add-on custom buttons](./images/Preview%20Image%20-%20v2.png)
 
-With **Custom Templates** you can setup as many .blend file as you like, as templates.
+Your templates will be avaliable in the Splash Screen and the `File > New` menu.
 
-### Preferences
+### Changelog
 
-In the add-on preferences, you can manage the list of your custom template files.
-
-You can add, remove and reorder templates.
-
-Each template has it's Name, and Path to the .blend file.
-
-![Custom Templates Preferences](./images/Addons_Preferences.png)
-
-*Note that, as of now, using wrong file paths will NOT show any warning and you will get an error while opening the template.*  
-*Be sure to use only valid .blend files as path.*
-
-### How to use
-
-You can always open the add-on preferences using the button `File > Defaults > Manage templates`.
-
-Instead of using preferences, you can select a new template file using `File > Defaults > Select new custom template`, or, if you have a .blend file open, you can use `File > Defaults > Use current as new template`. 
-*This functions will open a popup where you can also set the Name for the new template*
-
-![File > Defaults menu with the add-on custom buttons](./images/File__Defaults.png)
-
-### Support
-
-As of today, the add-on has been only tested on Blender 4.2.0.
-*It may or may not work on previous version.*
+Visit the [CHANGELOG](./CHANGELOG.md) file to see the changes over new version.  
 
 ### Copyright
 
 This add-on is developed under GPL-3.0 license by Francesco Bellini from 2024.  
 *See the [LICENSE](./LICENSE) file.*
-
-#### Changelog
-
-Visit the [CHANGELOG](./CHANGELOG) file to se the changes over new version.

README_EXT.md

@@ -0,0 +1,53 @@
+# The Freedom to *Template*  
+
+Blender allows you to save you own .blend file to use on startup.  
+
+This is great, but wouldn't it be nice to be able to create **your own templates**?  
+
+**Custom Templates** allows you to use your own .blend files as template options for new projects.
+
+> Your templates will be added in the `File > New` menu and in the Splash Screen *(according to preferences)*.
+
+*You can follow this [steps to get started](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki/Getting-Started).*
+
+---
+
+*Instead of being limited to the usual options Blender offers to start a new project (General, 2D Animation, Sculpting, VFX, Video Editing), you will be able to configure your own list of .blend files.*  
+
+---
+
+Create your own templates or find the ones that best suit your needs online.  
+
+*Customize workspaces, preset your usual materials, define additional windows or anything else you would like to have from the beginning.*  
+
+*The only limit is your immagination!*  
+
+---
+
+#### Features
+
+- Show your templates in `File > New` menu and in the Splash Screen  
+- Option `File > New > Start from...`: 
+    Pick any .blend file as template (optional)  
+    *While selecting, you can optionally add the template.*  
+    *Activate this option from add-on preferences.*  
+- Import/Export templates from/to JSON file  
+- Add, remove, update, reorder your templates from add-on preferences  
+- Add templates from folder (lookup `.blend` files in folder)  
+- Select new template  
+- Use current file as template  
+- Clear current templates  
+- Add workspace from templates *(right-click on a workspace and use `Add from Custom Templates` menu)*  
+
+##### Legacy Support
+
+For previous Blender versions, you can install the [legacy version](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki/Support#legacy-version).  
+*Tested on all LTS versions from 2.83 to 3.6 (remember to use compatible templates).*
+
+---
+
+*For more details checkout the project's [Wiki](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki).*
+
+---
+
+#### Make your new projects easier from the start

addon/__init__.py

@@ -13,267 +13,65 @@
 
 # You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License
 # along with this program.  If not, see <https://www.gnu.org/licenses/>.
-
-import os
 import bpy
-from bpy.types import AddonPreferences, PropertyGroup, Operator
-from bpy.props import CollectionProperty, IntProperty, StringProperty
-
+from bpy.types import TOPBAR_MT_file_new, TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults, TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu
+from .src.funcs import draw_file_new_templates, draw_file_default_operators, draw_ws_menu_add
+from .src.splash import WM_MT_splash
+from .src.menus import CT_MT_splash_mode, CT_MT_templates_menu, CT_MT_workspace_add, CT_MT_more_templates
+from .src.ops import CT_OT_export_templates, CT_OT_start_from, CT_OT_import_templates, CT_OT_select_template_popup, CT_OT_add_template_popup, CT_OT_add, CT_OT_remove, CT_OT_move_down, CT_OT_move_up, CT_OT_open_preferences, CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder, CT_OT_clear, CT_OT_template_workspaces, CT_OT_add_workspace
+from .src.prefs import CustomTemplatesPreferences, TemplateItem
 
 bl_info = {
     "id": "custom_templates",
     "name": "Custom Templates",
     "tagline": "Add your own .blend files as template options for new projects",
     "blender": (4, 2, 0),
-    "location": "File > New & File > Defaults",
+    "location": "File > New, File > Defaults, Splash Screen",
     "category": "System",
     "support": "COMMUNITY",
     "blender_manifest": "blender_manifest.toml"
 }
 
+classes = [WM_MT_splash,
+           CT_MT_workspace_add,
+           CT_MT_splash_mode,
+           CT_MT_templates_menu,
+           CT_MT_more_templates,
+           CT_OT_add_workspace,
+           CT_OT_start_from,
+           CT_OT_template_workspaces,
+           CT_OT_export_templates,
+           CT_OT_import_templates,
+           CT_OT_open_preferences,
+           CT_OT_move_up,
+           CT_OT_move_down,
+           CT_OT_add,
+           CT_OT_remove,
+           CT_OT_clear,
+           CT_OT_add_template_popup,
+           CT_OT_select_template_popup,
+           CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder,
+           TemplateItem,
+           CustomTemplatesPreferences]
 
-class TemplateItem(PropertyGroup):
-    name: StringProperty(
-        name="Name", description="Display name for this template")
-    path: StringProperty(
-        name="Path", description="Path to the .blend file for this template", subtype='FILE_PATH')
-
-
-class OT_SelectTemplatePopup(Operator):
-    bl_idname = "wm.select_template_popup"
-    bl_label = "Select a new custom template"
-    bl_description = "Create a new template occurency by selecting an existing .blend file"
-
-    project_name: StringProperty(name="Project Name")
-    project_path: StringProperty(name="Project Path", subtype="FILE_PATH")
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-        for p in prefs.projects:
-            if p.path == self.project_path:
-                already_present = True
-                self.report(
-                    {'WARNING'}, f'Selected file is already in the templates list as "{p.name}".')
-                return {'FINISHED'}
-
-        new_project = prefs.projects.add()
-        new_project.name = self.project_name
-        new_project.path = self.project_path
-        self.report(
-            {'INFO'}, f"Template '{self.project_name}' selected and added successfully!")
-
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-
-    def invoke(self, context, event):
-        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
-
-
-class OT_AddTemplatePopup(Operator):
-    bl_idname = "wm.add_template_popup"
-    bl_label = "Use as template"
-    bl_description = "Use the current .blend file to create a new template occurency"
-
-    project_name: StringProperty(name="Project Name")
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-        current_file_path = bpy.data.filepath
-        for p in prefs.projects:
-            if p.path == current_file_path:
-                already_present = True
-                self.report(
-                    {'WARNING'}, f'Current file is already in the templates list as "{p.name}".')
-                return {'FINISHED'}
-
-        if current_file_path:
-            new_project = prefs.projects.add()
-            new_project.name = self.project_name
-            new_project.path = current_file_path
-            self.report(
-                {'INFO'}, f"Template '{self.project_name}' added successfully!")
-        else:
-            self.report({'ERROR'}, "Current file is not saved on disk.")
-
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-
-    def invoke(self, context, event):
-        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
-
-
-class OT_AddTemplateItem(Operator):
-    bl_idname = "custom_templates.add"
-    bl_label = "Add Template"
-    bl_description = "Add new template"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-        prefs.projects.add()
-        prefs.active_template_index = len(prefs.projects) - 1
-        self.report({'INFO'}, f"Empty template added")
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-
-
-class OT_RemoveTemplateItem(Operator):
-    bl_idname = "custom_templates.remove"
-    bl_label = "Remove Template"
-    bl_description = "Remove selected template"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-        self.report(
-            {'INFO'}, f'Template "{prefs.projects[prefs.active_template_index].name}" removed{" (`"+prefs.projects[prefs.active_template_index].path+"`)" if prefs.projects[prefs.active_template_index].path != "" else "" }')
-        prefs.projects.remove(prefs.active_template_index)
-        prefs.active_template_index = min(
-            max(0, prefs.active_template_index - 1), len(prefs.projects) - 1)
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-
-
-class OT_MoveUpTemplateItem(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "custom_templates.move_up"
-    bl_label = "Move Up"
-    bl_description = "Move the selected template up in the list"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-        index = prefs.active_template_index
-
-        if index > 0:
-            prefs.projects.move(index, index - 1)
-            prefs.active_template_index -= 1
-            self.report({'INFO'}, f"Templates list re-ordered")
-        else:
-            self.report({'WARNING'}, "Template is already at the top")
-
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-
-
-class OT_MoveDownTemplateItem(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "custom_templates.move_down"
-    bl_label = "Move Down"
-    bl_description = "Move the selected template down in the list"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-        index = prefs.active_template_index
-
-        if index < len(prefs.projects) - 1:
-            prefs.projects.move(index, index + 1)
-            prefs.active_template_index += 1
-            self.report({'INFO'}, f"Templates list re-ordered")
-        else:
-            self.report({'WARNING'}, "Template is already at the bottom")
-
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-    
-class OT_OpenAddonPreferences(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "custom_templates.open_preferences"
-    bl_label = "Open Custom Templates Preferences"
-    bl_description = "Open the preferences for the Custom Templates add-on"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        bpy.ops.screen.userpref_show('INVOKE_DEFAULT')
-        context.preferences.active_section = 'ADDONS'
-        context.window_manager.addon_search = "Custom Templates"
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-
-# Add-On Preferences
-class CustomTemplatesPreferences(AddonPreferences):
-    bl_idname = __package__
-
-    projects: CollectionProperty(type=TemplateItem)
-    active_template_index: IntProperty(
-        description="Index of the selected template")
-
-    def draw(self, context):
-        layout = self.layout
-
-        layout.label(
-            text="Here you can setup your own .blend files that will be shown in the `File > New` menu.")
-        layout.label(
-            text="You can also use `File > Defaults > Select new custom template` and `File > Defaults > Use current as new template` to update this preferences.")
-
-        row = layout.row()
-        row.template_list("UI_UL_list", "custom_templates",
-                          self, "projects", self, "active_template_index")
-
-        col = row.column(align=True)
-        col.operator("custom_templates.add", icon='ADD', text="")
-        col.operator("custom_templates.remove", icon='REMOVE', text="")
-        col.operator("custom_templates.move_up", icon='TRIA_UP', text="")
-        col.operator("custom_templates.move_down", icon='TRIA_DOWN', text="")
-
-        if self.projects:
-            project = self.projects[self.active_template_index]
-            layout.prop(project, "name")
-            layout.prop(project, "path")
-
-
-
-def draw_addon_separator(layout):
-    layout.separator()
-    layout.label(text="Custom Templates")
-    layout.separator()
-
-
-def draw_new_menu(self, context):
-    layout = self.layout
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[__package__].preferences
-
-    if len(prefs.projects) > 0:
-        draw_addon_separator(layout)
-
-    for project in prefs.projects:
-        layout.operator(
-            "wm.read_homefile", text=project.name).filepath = project.path
-
-
-# File > Defaults > Add-On Buttons
-def draw_add_template(self, context):
-    layout = self.layout
-
-    draw_addon_separator(layout)
-
-    # Manage Template
-    layout.operator("custom_templates.open_preferences",
-                    text="Manage templates")
-    # Select new custom template
-    layout.operator("wm.select_template_popup",
-                    text="Select new custom template")
-    if bpy.data.filepath != "":
-        # Use current as new template (only with an active saved .blend file opened)
-        layout.operator("wm.add_template_popup",
-                        text="Use current as new template")
-
+og_splash = None
 
 def register():
-    bpy.utils.register_class(TemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_MoveUpTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_MoveDownTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_AddTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_RemoveTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_AddTemplatePopup)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_SelectTemplatePopup)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(OT_OpenAddonPreferences)
-    bpy.utils.register_class(CustomTemplatesPreferences)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_new_menu)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_add_template)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.append(draw_new_menu)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.append(draw_add_template)
-
+    global og_splash
+    og_splash = bpy.types.WM_MT_splash
+    for c in classes:
+        bpy.utils.register_class(c)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_new.append(draw_file_new_templates)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.append(draw_file_default_operators)
+    TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.append(draw_ws_menu_add)
 
 def unregister():
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(CustomTemplatesPreferences)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_MoveUpTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_MoveDownTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_AddTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_AddTemplatePopup)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_RemoveTemplateItem)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_SelectTemplatePopup)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(OT_OpenAddonPreferences)
-    bpy.utils.unregister_class(TemplateItem)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_new_menu)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.remove(draw_add_template)
-
+    for c in reversed(classes):
+        bpy.utils.unregister_class(c)
+    bpy.utils.register_class(og_splash)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_file_new_templates)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.remove(draw_file_default_operators)
+    TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.remove(draw_ws_menu_add)
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":
-    register()
+    registers()

addon/blender_manifest.toml

@@ -1,27 +1,14 @@
 schema_version = "1.0.0"
 id = "custom_templates"
-version = "1.0.2"
+version = "1.5.0"
 name = "Custom Templates"
 tagline = "Use your own .blend files as template options for new projects"
 maintainer = "Francesco Bellini <doc.open.dev@gmail.com>"
 type = "add-on"
-
-# Repository on projects.blender.org
 website = "https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon"
-
-# Optional list defined by Blender and server, see:
-# https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/dev/advanced/extensions/tags.html
-tags = ["System"]
-
+tags = ["System", "User Interface"]
 blender_version_min = "4.2.0"
-
-# License conforming to https://spdx.org/licenses/ (use "SPDX: prefix)
-# https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/dev/advanced/extensions/licenses.html
-license = [
-  "SPDX:GPL-3.0-or-later",
-]
-# Optional: required by some licenses.
-copyright = [
-  "2024 Francesco Bellini",
-]
-
+license = ["SPDX:GPL-3.0-or-later"]
+copyright = ["2024 Francesco Bellini"]
+[permissions]
+files = "JSON Import/Export of templates list / Add templates from folder"

addon/src/funcs.py

@@ -0,0 +1,77 @@
+import os
+import bpy
+from .. import __package__ as base_package
+
+def already_present(self, prefs, path, report=True):
+    for p in prefs.projects:
+        if p.path == path:
+            if report:
+                self.report(
+                    {'WARNING'}, f'Current file is already in the templates list as "{p.name}".')
+            return True
+    return False
+
+def name_from_path(path):
+    if path:
+        return os.path.splitext(os.path.basename(path))[0]
+    else:
+        return ""
+
+def on_path_update(self, context):
+    if not self.name and self.path:
+        self.name = name_from_path(self.path)
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+    if self.path and self.path.startswith('//'):
+        self.path = bpy.path.abspath(self.path)
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+
+def pref():
+    return bpy.context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        
+def has_templates():
+    return len(pref().projects) > 0
+
+def draw_file_new_templates(self, context):
+    layout = self.layout
+    if has_templates():
+        layout.separator()
+    draw_templates(layout, context)
+
+def draw_templates(layout, context, splash_mode=False):
+    prefs = pref()
+    for i in range(min(5 if len(prefs.projects) <= 5 else 4, len(prefs.projects)) if splash_mode else len(prefs.projects)):
+        project = prefs.projects[i]
+        if project.path:
+            layout.operator(
+                "wm.read_homefile", text=(project.name if project.name else name_from_path(project.path)), icon="FILE_NEW" if splash_mode else "NONE").filepath = project.path
+    if splash_mode and len(prefs.projects) > 5:
+        layout.menu("CT_MT_more_templates", text="More...", icon="FILE_NEW")
+    if not splash_mode and prefs.start_from and context.area.type == 'TOPBAR':
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.operator("ct.start_from", icon="FILE_FOLDER")
+
+def draw_file_default_operators(self, context):
+    layout = self.layout
+    layout.separator()
+    layout.operator("ct.open_preferences",
+                    text="Manage templates")
+    layout.operator("ct.add_templates_from_folder",
+                    text="Add from folder", icon="ADD")
+    layout.operator("ct.clear", text="Clear current templates", icon="TRASH")
+    layout.separator()
+    layout.operator("ct.import_templates",
+                    text="Import templates", icon="IMPORT")
+    layout.operator("ct.export_templates",
+                    text="Export templates", icon="EXPORT")
+    layout.separator()
+    layout.operator("ct.select_template_popup",
+                    text="Select new template")
+    if bpy.data.filepath != "":
+        layout.operator("ct.add_template_popup",
+                        text="Use current file as template")
+
+def draw_ws_menu_add(self, context):
+    layout = self.layout
+    if has_templates():
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.menu("CT_MT_workspace_add", text="Add from Custom Templates", icon="WORKSPACE")

addon/src/menus.py

@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+from .. import __package__ as base_package
+import os
+import bpy
+import json
+from bpy.types import Menu
+from .funcs import pref, name_from_path
+
+class CT_MT_templates_menu(Menu):
+    bl_label = "Manage your custom templates"
+    bl_description = "Import, export, add from folder (with controllable recursion depth), clear current templates"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        layout.operator("ct.add_templates_from_folder",
+                        text="Add from folder", icon="ADD")
+        layout.operator(
+            "ct.clear", text="Clear current templates", icon="TRASH")
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.operator("ct.import_templates",
+                        text="Import templates", icon="IMPORT")
+        layout.operator("ct.export_templates",
+                        text="Export templates", icon="EXPORT")
+
+class CT_MT_splash_mode(Menu):
+    bl_idname = "CT_MT_splash_mode"
+    bl_label = "Custom Templates Switch"
+    bl_description = "Swtich between Blender's default and your Custom Templates"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        prefs = pref()
+            
+        layout.operator("ct.open_preferences", text="Manage templates")
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.prop(prefs, "override_splash")
+
+class CT_MT_more_templates(Menu):
+    bl_idname = "CT_MT_more_templates"
+    bl_label = "Other Custom Templates"
+    bl_description = "Show the other templates in the splash screen"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        prefs = pref()
+        
+        for t in prefs.projects[4:]:
+            layout.operator(
+                "wm.read_homefile", text=(t.name if t.name else name_from_path(t.path)), icon="FILE_NEW").filepath = t.path
+
+class CT_MT_workspace_add(Menu):
+    bl_label = "Add workspace from Custom Templates"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        templates = pref().projects
+        layout.label(text="Add workspace from Custom Templates", icon="ADD")
+        layout.separator()
+        for i in range(len(templates)):
+            t = templates[i]
+            layout.operator("CT_OT_template_workspaces", text=t.name).index = i

addon/src/ops.py

@@ -0,0 +1,328 @@
+import os
+import bpy
+import json
+from bpy.types import Operator
+from bpy.props import StringProperty, IntProperty, BoolProperty
+from .funcs import pref, has_templates, name_from_path, already_present, on_path_update
+from .. import __package__ as base_package
+
+class CT_OT_export_templates(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.export_templates"
+    bl_label = "Export custom templates"
+    bl_description = "Export the current list of templates to JSON file"
+
+    filepath: StringProperty(
+        subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the path for the exported file", default="templates.json")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        with open(self.filepath, 'w') as f:
+            projects = [{"name": project.name, "path": project.path}
+                        for project in prefs.projects]
+            json.dump(projects, f, indent=4)
+
+        self.report({'INFO'}, f"Templates exported to {self.filepath}")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_import_templates(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.import_templates"
+    bl_label = "Import custom templates"
+    bl_description = "Import a list of templates from JSON file (note that this will override the current templates list)"
+
+    filepath: StringProperty(
+        subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the .json file to load")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+
+        if os.path.exists(self.filepath):
+            with open(self.filepath, 'r') as f:
+                projects = json.load(f)
+
+            prefs.projects.clear()
+            for project in projects:
+                item = prefs.projects.add()
+                item.name = project["name"]
+                item.path = project["path"]
+            prefs.active_template_index = 0
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+
+            self.report({'INFO'}, f"Projects imported from {self.filepath}")
+        else:
+            self.report(
+                {'WARNING'}, f"Import cancelled: path not found ({self.filepath})")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+class CT_OT_add(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add"
+    bl_label = "Add Template"
+    bl_description = "Add new template"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        prefs.projects.add()
+        prefs.active_template_index = len(prefs.projects) - 1
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+class CT_OT_remove(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.remove"
+    bl_label = "Remove Template"
+    bl_description = "Remove selected template"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        prefs.projects.remove(prefs.active_template_index)
+        prefs.active_template_index = min(
+            max(0, prefs.active_template_index - 1), len(prefs.projects) - 1)
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.move_up"
+    bl_label = "Move Up"
+    bl_description = "Move the selected template up in the list"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        index = prefs.active_template_index
+
+        if index > 0:
+            prefs.projects.move(index, index - 1)
+            prefs.active_template_index -= 1
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        else:
+            self.report({'WARNING'}, "Template is already at the top")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.move_down"
+    bl_label = "Move Down"
+    bl_description = "Move the selected template down in the list"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        index = prefs.active_template_index
+
+        if index < len(prefs.projects) - 1:
+            prefs.projects.move(index, index + 1)
+            prefs.active_template_index += 1
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        else:
+            self.report({'WARNING'}, "Template is already at the bottom")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.clear"
+    bl_label = "Clear Templates"
+    bl_description = "Clear the current list of templates (remove all templates)"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        prefs.projects.clear()
+        prefs.active_template_index = 0
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_add_template_popup(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add_template_popup"
+    bl_label = "Use as template"
+    bl_description = "Use the current .blend file to create a new template occurency"
+
+    name: StringProperty(name="Project Name")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        if not already_present(self, prefs, bpy.data.filepath):
+            if bpy.data.filepath:
+                new_project = prefs.projects.add()
+                new_project.name = self.name
+                new_project.path = bpy.data.filepath
+                self.name = ''
+                context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+            else:
+                self.report({'ERROR'}, "Current file is not saved on disk.")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        if bpy.data.filepath:
+            self.name = name_from_path(bpy.data.filepath)
+        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
+
+class CT_OT_select_template_popup(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.select_template_popup"
+    bl_label = "Select a new custom template"
+    bl_description = "Create a new template by selecting an existing .blend file"
+
+    path: StringProperty(name="Template Path",
+                         subtype="FILE_PATH", update=on_path_update)
+    name: StringProperty(name="Template Name")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        if not already_present(self, prefs, self.path):
+            template = prefs.projects.add()
+            template.name = self.name
+            template.path = self.path
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+            self.name = ''
+            self.path = ''
+
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
+
+class CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add_templates_from_folder"
+    bl_label = "Add Templates from Folder"
+    bl_description = "Add templates from a specified folder containing .blend files"
+
+    directory: StringProperty(
+        subtype="DIR_PATH", description="Select the folder containing .blend files")
+    depth: IntProperty(
+        name="Depth", description="Depth of recursion (default 1)", default=1, min=1)
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+
+        if os.path.exists(self.directory):
+            blend_files = []
+            for root, dirs, files in os.walk(self.directory):
+                # Calculate the current depth
+                current_depth = root[len(self.directory):].count(os.sep)
+                if current_depth < self.depth:
+                    for file in files:
+                        if file.endswith('.blend'):
+                            blend_files.append(os.path.join(root, file))
+
+            if not blend_files:
+                self.report(
+                    {'WARNING'}, "No .blend files found in the specified directory")
+                return {'CANCELLED'}
+            new_t = 0
+            for path in blend_files:
+                if not already_present(self, prefs, path, False):
+                    new_t += 1
+                    item = prefs.projects.add()
+                    item.name = name_from_path(path)
+                    item.path = path
+
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+            self.report(
+                {'INFO'}, f"{new_t} new templates added from {self.directory} ({len(blend_files) - new_t} already present)")
+        else:
+            self.report(
+                {'WARNING'}, f"Import cancelled: directory not found ({self.directory})")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+class CT_OT_open_preferences(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.open_preferences"
+    bl_label = "Open Custom Templates Preferences"
+    bl_description = "Open the preferences for the Custom Templates add-on"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        bpy.ops.screen.userpref_show('INVOKE_DEFAULT')
+        context.preferences.active_section = 'ADDONS'
+        context.window_manager.addon_search = "Custom Templates"
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+class CT_OT_add_workspace(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add_workspace"
+    bl_label = "Add this workspace from your template"
+    bl_description = "Add to the current project, the selected workspace from your Custom Template"
+
+    workspace: StringProperty(name="workspace")
+    path: StringProperty(name="path")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        bpy.ops.workspace.append_activate(idname=self.workspace, filepath=self.path)
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+class CT_OT_template_workspaces(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.template_workspaces"
+    bl_label = "Add workspace from this template"
+    bl_description = "Click to select one of the workspaces from this Custom Template"
+
+    index: IntProperty(name='index', default=0)
+
+    def draw_ws(self, s, context):
+        layout = s.layout
+        template = pref().projects[self.index]
+        with bpy.data.libraries.load(template.path) as (data, _):
+            for w in data.workspaces:
+                op = layout.operator("ct.add_workspace", text=w)
+                op.workspace = w
+                op.path = template.path
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        wm = context.window_manager
+        template = pref().projects[self.index]
+        wm.popup_menu(self.draw_ws, title=f"Workspaces from '{template.name}'", icon="ADD")
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+class CT_OT_start_from(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.start_from"
+    bl_label = "Start from..."
+    bl_description = "Use any selected .blend file as template (and optionally add it to the list)"
+
+    filepath: StringProperty(
+        subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the .json file to load", update=on_path_update)
+    add: BoolProperty(default=False, name="Add template", description="Add this file in your templates")
+    name: StringProperty(name="Name", description="The name for this template (if empty, file name will be used)")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        if self.filepath:
+            if self.add and not already_present(self, prefs, self.filepath):
+                template = prefs.projects.add()
+                template.name = self.name if self.name else name_from_path(self.filepath)
+                template.path = self.filepath
+                context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+                
+            bpy.ops.wm.read_homefile(filepath=self.filepath)
+        else:
+            self.report({'WARNING'}, "This option can only be used from File > New menu")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}

addon/src/prefs.py

@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+import bpy
+from bpy.types import PropertyGroup, AddonPreferences
+from bpy.props import StringProperty, CollectionProperty, IntProperty, BoolProperty
+from .funcs import on_path_update
+from .. import __package__ as base_package
+
+class TemplateItem(PropertyGroup):
+    name: StringProperty(
+        name="Name", description="Display name for this template")
+    path: StringProperty(
+        name="Path", description="Path to the .blend file for this template", subtype='FILE_PATH', update=on_path_update)
+
+class CustomTemplatesPreferences(AddonPreferences):
+    bl_idname = base_package
+
+    override_splash: BoolProperty(
+        default=True, name="Use Custom Templates", description="Override Splash Screen's 'New File' list with your Custom Templates")
+    start_from: BoolProperty(
+        default=False, name="Add option: File > New > Start from...", description="Show an option in File > New menu to start a new project from any .blend file")
+    projects: CollectionProperty(type=TemplateItem)
+    active_template_index: IntProperty(
+        description="Index of the selected template")
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+
+        layout.label(
+            text=f"Your custom templates ({len(self.projects)})")
+        row = layout.row()
+        row.template_list("UI_UL_list", "custom_templates",
+                          self, "projects", self, "active_template_index", rows=6, maxrows=6)
+        col = row.column(align=True)
+        col.menu("CT_MT_templates_menu", icon='DOWNARROW_HLT', text="")
+        col.separator()
+        col.operator("ct.add_templates_from_folder", text="", icon="FILE_FOLDER")
+        col.operator("ct.add", icon='ADD', text="")
+        col.operator("ct.remove", icon='REMOVE', text="")
+        col.separator()
+        col.operator("ct.move_up", icon='TRIA_UP', text="")
+        col.operator("ct.move_down", icon='TRIA_DOWN', text="")
+
+        if self.projects:
+            project = self.projects[self.active_template_index]
+            layout.prop(project, "path")
+            layout.prop(project, "name")
+
+        b = layout.box()
+        b.label(text="Splash Screen", icon="SETTINGS")
+        b.prop(self, "override_splash")
+        box = b.box()
+        if self.override_splash and self.projects:
+            box.label(text="Custom templates will be shown in the Splash Screen.")
+  
+        if not self.override_splash or len(self.projects) == 0:
+            box.label(
+                text="The default Blender list will be shown in the Splash Screen.", icon=("ERROR" if not self.projects else "NONE"))
+
+        b = layout.box()
+        b.label(text="Extra", icon="SETTINGS")
+        b.prop(self, "start_from")

addon/src/splash.py

@@ -0,0 +1,73 @@
+# Ref WM_MT_splash https://projects.blender.org/blender/blender/src/commit/5a9fe638dedb179050c4929ea8fcdec80d221af2/scripts/startup/bl_operators/wm.py#L3296
+# Ref TOPBAR_MT_file_new https://projects.blender.org/blender/blender/src/commit/5a9fe638dedb179050c4929ea8fcdec80d221af2/scripts/startup/bl_ui/space_topbar.py#L286
+import bpy
+from .funcs import draw_templates, pref
+from .. import __package__ as base_package
+# Clone of the WM_MT_splash (the section under the image of the Splash)
+# It's edited (only in #Templates part) to add a menu in the New File section 
+# to switch between blender's original templates and Custom Templates.
+# If you have no custom templates, the default templates are displayed
+class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
+    bl_label="Splash"
+    
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        prefs = pref()
+        layout.operator_context = 'EXEC_DEFAULT'
+        layout.emboss = 'PULLDOWN_MENU'
+        split = layout.split()
+
+        # Templates
+        col1 = split.column()
+        ct_split = col1.split(factor=0.9)
+        colA = ct_split.column()
+        if prefs.override_splash and len(prefs.projects) > 0:
+            colA.label(text="Custom Templates")
+            col1.operator_context = 'INVOKE_DEFAULT'
+            draw_templates(col1, context, True)
+        else:
+            # Call original code
+            colA.label(text="New File")
+            bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.draw_ex(col1, context, use_splash=True)
+        colB = ct_split.column()
+        colB.menu("CT_MT_splash_mode", icon='DOWNARROW_HLT', text="")
+        
+        # Recent
+        col2 = split.column()
+        col2_title = col2.row()
+
+        found_recent = col2.template_recent_files()
+
+        if found_recent:
+            col2_title.label(text="Recent Files")
+        else:
+            # Links if no recent files.
+            col2_title.label(text="Getting Started")
+
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Manual", icon='URL').type = 'MANUAL'
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open", text="Tutorials", icon='URL').url = "https://www.blender.org/tutorials/"
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open", text="Support", icon='URL').url = "https://www.blender.org/support/"
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open", text="User Communities", icon='URL').url = "https://www.blender.org/community/"
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Blender Website", icon='URL').type = 'BLENDER'
+
+        layout.separator()
+
+        split = layout.split()
+
+        col1 = split.column()
+        sub = col1.row()
+        sub.operator_context = 'INVOKE_DEFAULT'
+        sub.operator("wm.open_mainfile", text="Open...", icon='FILE_FOLDER')
+        col1.operator("wm.recover_last_session", icon='RECOVER_LAST')
+
+        col2 = split.column()
+
+        col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Donate", icon='FUND').type = 'FUND'
+        col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="What's New", icon='URL').type = 'RELEASE_NOTES'
+
+        layout.separator()
+        
+        if (not bpy.app.online_access) and bpy.app.online_access_override:
+            self.layout.label(text="Running in Offline Mode", icon='INTERNET_OFFLINE')
+
+        layout.separator()

dev/TEST_WORKFLOW.md

@@ -0,0 +1,27 @@
+# Workflow for testing new versions
+
+- Install new version, and ensure no errors/previous setting preserved
+- Disable/Re-enable add-on for preferences reset
+- Ensure `File > New`/Splash Screen empty
+- Ensure operators are disabled (if they need templates)
+- Add single template from prefs (select path, name should auto complete from filename)
+- Ensure operators are enabled (if they need templates)
+- Add from folder (the same of the previous template, but with others)
+    *The folder templates (with optional nested levels) should be added, excluding aready present ones.*
+- Ensure `File > New`/Splash Screen match
+- Ensure `File > New`/Splash Screen works opening
+- Test the Splash Screen Switch (optionally checking preference persistence across restart)
+- Export the list to JSON file
+- Clear all templates (from settings)
+- Import the exported file
+- Ensure template list match previous
+- Test reordering/removing
+- Enable Extra option `File > New > Start From...`
+- Ensure it works (optionally checking add templates)
+- Ensure it doesn't show up with ctrl + N (which would not work properly because of context)
+- Test `File > Defaults > Select new template`
+- Test `File > Defaults > Use current as template`
+- Test `File > Defaults > Manage templates`/same as Splash Screen
+- Test `Workspace menu > Add from Custom Templates` feature
+- Ensure `File > New`/Splash Screen match
+- Nice, version ready!

legacy/__init__.py

@@ -0,0 +1,78 @@
+# Custom Templates - Blender Add-On
+# Copyright (C) 2024  Francesco Bellini
+
+# This program is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify
+# it under the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by
+# the Free Software Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or
+# (at your option) any later version.
+
+# This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful,
+# but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of
+# MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.  See the
+# GNU General Public License for more details.
+
+# You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License
+# along with this program.  If not, see <https://www.gnu.org/licenses/>.
+import bpy
+from bpy.types import TOPBAR_MT_file_new, TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults, TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu
+from .src.funcs import draw_file_new_templates, draw_file_default_operators, draw_ws_menu_add
+from .src.splash import WM_MT_splash
+from .src.menus import CT_MT_splash_mode, CT_MT_templates_menu, CT_MT_workspace_add, CT_MT_more_templates
+from .src.ops import CT_OT_export_templates, CT_OT_start_from, CT_OT_import_templates, CT_OT_select_template_popup, CT_OT_add_template_popup, CT_OT_add, CT_OT_remove, CT_OT_move_down, CT_OT_move_up, CT_OT_open_preferences, CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder, CT_OT_clear, CT_OT_template_workspaces, CT_OT_add_workspace
+from .src.prefs import CustomTemplatesPreferences, TemplateItem
+
+bl_info = {
+    "id": "custom_templates",
+    "name": "Custom Templates",
+    "tagline": "Add your own .blend files as template options for new projects",
+    "version": (1, 5, 0),
+    "blender": (2, 83, 0),
+    "location": "File > New, File > Defaults, Splash Screen",
+    "category": "System",
+    "support": "COMMUNITY",
+    "blender_manifest": "blender_manifest.toml"
+}
+
+classes = [WM_MT_splash,
+           CT_MT_workspace_add,
+           CT_MT_splash_mode,
+           CT_MT_templates_menu,
+           CT_MT_more_templates,
+           CT_OT_add_workspace,
+           CT_OT_start_from,
+           CT_OT_template_workspaces,
+           CT_OT_export_templates,
+           CT_OT_import_templates,
+           CT_OT_open_preferences,
+           CT_OT_move_up,
+           CT_OT_move_down,
+           CT_OT_add,
+           CT_OT_remove,
+           CT_OT_clear,
+           CT_OT_add_template_popup,
+           CT_OT_select_template_popup,
+           CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder,
+           TemplateItem,
+           CustomTemplatesPreferences]
+
+og_splash = None
+
+def register():
+    global og_splash
+    og_splash = bpy.types.WM_MT_splash
+    for c in classes:
+        bpy.utils.register_class(c)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_new.append(draw_file_new_templates)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.append(draw_file_default_operators)
+    TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.append(draw_ws_menu_add)
+
+def unregister():
+    for c in reversed(classes):
+        bpy.utils.unregister_class(c)
+    bpy.utils.register_class(og_splash)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_file_new_templates)
+    TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.remove(draw_file_default_operators)
+    TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.remove(draw_ws_menu_add)
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    registers()

legacy/src/funcs.py

@@ -0,0 +1,77 @@
+import os
+import bpy
+from .. import __name__ as base_package
+
+def already_present(self, prefs, path, report=True):
+    for p in prefs.projects:
+        if p.path == path:
+            if report:
+                self.report(
+                    {'WARNING'}, f'Current file is already in the templates list as "{p.name}".')
+            return True
+    return False
+
+def name_from_path(path):
+    if path:
+        return os.path.splitext(os.path.basename(path))[0]
+    else:
+        return ""
+
+def on_path_update(self, context):
+    if not self.name and self.path:
+        self.name = name_from_path(self.path)
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+    if self.path and self.path.startswith('//'):
+        self.path = bpy.path.abspath(self.path)
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+
+def pref():
+    return bpy.context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        
+def has_templates():
+    return len(pref().projects) > 0
+
+def draw_file_new_templates(self, context):
+    layout = self.layout
+    if has_templates():
+        layout.separator()
+    draw_templates(layout, context)
+
+def draw_templates(layout, context, splash_mode=False):
+    prefs = pref()
+    for i in range(min(5 if len(prefs.projects) <= 5 else 4, len(prefs.projects)) if splash_mode else len(prefs.projects)):
+        project = prefs.projects[i]
+        if project.path:
+            layout.operator(
+                "wm.read_homefile", text=(project.name if project.name else name_from_path(project.path)), icon="FILE_NEW" if splash_mode else "NONE").filepath = project.path
+    if splash_mode and len(prefs.projects) > 5:
+        layout.menu("CT_MT_more_templates", text="More...", icon="FILE_NEW")
+    if not splash_mode and prefs.start_from and context.area.type == 'TOPBAR':
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.operator("ct.start_from", icon="FILE_FOLDER")
+
+def draw_file_default_operators(self, context):
+    layout = self.layout
+    layout.separator()
+    layout.operator("ct.open_preferences",
+                    text="Manage templates")
+    layout.operator("ct.add_templates_from_folder",
+                    text="Add from folder", icon="ADD")
+    layout.operator("ct.clear", text="Clear current templates", icon="TRASH")
+    layout.separator()
+    layout.operator("ct.import_templates",
+                    text="Import templates", icon="IMPORT")
+    layout.operator("ct.export_templates",
+                    text="Export templates", icon="EXPORT")
+    layout.separator()
+    layout.operator("ct.select_template_popup",
+                    text="Select new template")
+    if bpy.data.filepath != "":
+        layout.operator("ct.add_template_popup",
+                        text="Use current file as template")
+
+def draw_ws_menu_add(self, context):
+    layout = self.layout
+    if has_templates():
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.menu("CT_MT_workspace_add", text="Add from Custom Templates", icon="WORKSPACE")

legacy/src/menus.py

@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+from .. import __name__ as base_package
+import os
+import bpy
+import json
+from bpy.types import Menu
+from .funcs import pref, name_from_path
+
+class CT_MT_templates_menu(Menu):
+    bl_label = "Manage your custom templates"
+    bl_description = "Import, export, add from folder (with controllable recursion depth), clear current templates"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        layout.operator("ct.add_templates_from_folder",
+                        text="Add from folder", icon="ADD")
+        layout.operator(
+            "ct.clear", text="Clear current templates", icon="TRASH")
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.operator("ct.import_templates",
+                        text="Import templates", icon="IMPORT")
+        layout.operator("ct.export_templates",
+                        text="Export templates", icon="EXPORT")
+
+class CT_MT_splash_mode(Menu):
+    bl_idname = "CT_MT_splash_mode"
+    bl_label = "Custom Templates Switch"
+    bl_description = "Swtich between Blender's default and your Custom Templates"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        prefs = pref()
+            
+        layout.operator("ct.open_preferences", text="Manage templates")
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.prop(prefs, "override_splash")
+
+class CT_MT_more_templates(Menu):
+    bl_idname = "CT_MT_more_templates"
+    bl_label = "Other Custom Templates"
+    bl_description = "Show the other templates in the splash screen"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        prefs = pref()
+        
+        for t in prefs.projects[4:]:
+            layout.operator(
+                "wm.read_homefile", text=(t.name if t.name else name_from_path(t.path)), icon="FILE_NEW").filepath = t.path
+
+class CT_MT_workspace_add(Menu):
+    bl_label = "Add workspace from Custom Templates"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        templates = pref().projects
+        layout.label(text="Add workspace from Custom Templates", icon="ADD")
+        layout.separator()
+        for i in range(len(templates)):
+            t = templates[i]
+            layout.operator("CT_OT_template_workspaces", text=t.name).index = i

legacy/src/ops.py

@@ -0,0 +1,328 @@
+import os
+import bpy
+import json
+from bpy.types import Operator
+from bpy.props import StringProperty, IntProperty, BoolProperty
+from .funcs import pref, has_templates, name_from_path, already_present, on_path_update
+from .. import __name__ as base_package
+
+class CT_OT_export_templates(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.export_templates"
+    bl_label = "Export custom templates"
+    bl_description = "Export the current list of templates to JSON file"
+
+    filepath: StringProperty(
+        subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the path for the exported file", default="templates.json")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        with open(self.filepath, 'w') as f:
+            projects = [{"name": project.name, "path": project.path}
+                        for project in prefs.projects]
+            json.dump(projects, f, indent=4)
+
+        self.report({'INFO'}, f"Templates exported to {self.filepath}")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_import_templates(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.import_templates"
+    bl_label = "Import custom templates"
+    bl_description = "Import a list of templates from JSON file (note that this will override the current templates list)"
+
+    filepath: StringProperty(
+        subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the .json file to load")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+
+        if os.path.exists(self.filepath):
+            with open(self.filepath, 'r') as f:
+                projects = json.load(f)
+
+            prefs.projects.clear()
+            for project in projects:
+                item = prefs.projects.add()
+                item.name = project["name"]
+                item.path = project["path"]
+            prefs.active_template_index = 0
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+
+            self.report({'INFO'}, f"Projects imported from {self.filepath}")
+        else:
+            self.report(
+                {'WARNING'}, f"Import cancelled: path not found ({self.filepath})")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+class CT_OT_add(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add"
+    bl_label = "Add Template"
+    bl_description = "Add new template"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        prefs.projects.add()
+        prefs.active_template_index = len(prefs.projects) - 1
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+class CT_OT_remove(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.remove"
+    bl_label = "Remove Template"
+    bl_description = "Remove selected template"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        prefs.projects.remove(prefs.active_template_index)
+        prefs.active_template_index = min(
+            max(0, prefs.active_template_index - 1), len(prefs.projects) - 1)
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.move_up"
+    bl_label = "Move Up"
+    bl_description = "Move the selected template up in the list"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        index = prefs.active_template_index
+
+        if index > 0:
+            prefs.projects.move(index, index - 1)
+            prefs.active_template_index -= 1
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        else:
+            self.report({'WARNING'}, "Template is already at the top")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.move_down"
+    bl_label = "Move Down"
+    bl_description = "Move the selected template down in the list"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        index = prefs.active_template_index
+
+        if index < len(prefs.projects) - 1:
+            prefs.projects.move(index, index + 1)
+            prefs.active_template_index += 1
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        else:
+            self.report({'WARNING'}, "Template is already at the bottom")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.clear"
+    bl_label = "Clear Templates"
+    bl_description = "Clear the current list of templates (remove all templates)"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        prefs.projects.clear()
+        prefs.active_template_index = 0
+        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
+
+    @classmethod
+    def poll(cls, context):
+        return has_templates()
+
+class CT_OT_add_template_popup(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add_template_popup"
+    bl_label = "Use as template"
+    bl_description = "Use the current .blend file to create a new template occurency"
+
+    name: StringProperty(name="Project Name")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        if not already_present(self, prefs, bpy.data.filepath):
+            if bpy.data.filepath:
+                new_project = prefs.projects.add()
+                new_project.name = self.name
+                new_project.path = bpy.data.filepath
+                self.name = ''
+                context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+            else:
+                self.report({'ERROR'}, "Current file is not saved on disk.")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        if bpy.data.filepath:
+            self.name = name_from_path(bpy.data.filepath)
+        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
+
+class CT_OT_select_template_popup(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.select_template_popup"
+    bl_label = "Select a new custom template"
+    bl_description = "Create a new template by selecting an existing .blend file"
+
+    path: StringProperty(name="Template Path",
+                         subtype="FILE_PATH", update=on_path_update)
+    name: StringProperty(name="Template Name")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        if not already_present(self, prefs, self.path):
+            template = prefs.projects.add()
+            template.name = self.name
+            template.path = self.path
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+            self.name = ''
+            self.path = ''
+
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
+
+class CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add_templates_from_folder"
+    bl_label = "Add Templates from Folder"
+    bl_description = "Add templates from a specified folder containing .blend files"
+
+    directory: StringProperty(
+        subtype="DIR_PATH", description="Select the folder containing .blend files")
+    depth: IntProperty(
+        name="Depth", description="Depth of recursion (default 1)", default=1, min=1)
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+
+        if os.path.exists(self.directory):
+            blend_files = []
+            for root, dirs, files in os.walk(self.directory):
+                # Calculate the current depth
+                current_depth = root[len(self.directory):].count(os.sep)
+                if current_depth < self.depth:
+                    for file in files:
+                        if file.endswith('.blend'):
+                            blend_files.append(os.path.join(root, file))
+
+            if not blend_files:
+                self.report(
+                    {'WARNING'}, "No .blend files found in the specified directory")
+                return {'CANCELLED'}
+            new_t = 0
+            for path in blend_files:
+                if not already_present(self, prefs, path, False):
+                    new_t += 1
+                    item = prefs.projects.add()
+                    item.name = name_from_path(path)
+                    item.path = path
+
+            context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+            self.report(
+                {'INFO'}, f"{new_t} new templates added from {self.directory} ({len(blend_files) - new_t} already present)")
+        else:
+            self.report(
+                {'WARNING'}, f"Import cancelled: directory not found ({self.directory})")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+class CT_OT_open_preferences(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.open_preferences"
+    bl_label = "Open Custom Templates Preferences"
+    bl_description = "Open the preferences for the Custom Templates add-on"
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        bpy.ops.screen.userpref_show('INVOKE_DEFAULT')
+        context.preferences.active_section = 'ADDONS'
+        context.window_manager.addon_search = "Custom Templates"
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+class CT_OT_add_workspace(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.add_workspace"
+    bl_label = "Add this workspace from your template"
+    bl_description = "Add to the current project, the selected workspace from your Custom Template"
+
+    workspace: StringProperty(name="workspace")
+    path: StringProperty(name="path")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        bpy.ops.workspace.append_activate(idname=self.workspace, filepath=self.path)
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+class CT_OT_template_workspaces(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.template_workspaces"
+    bl_label = "Add workspace from this template"
+    bl_description = "Click to select one of the workspaces from this Custom Template"
+
+    index: IntProperty(name='index', default=0)
+
+    def draw_ws(self, s, context):
+        layout = s.layout
+        template = pref().projects[self.index]
+        with bpy.data.libraries.load(template.path) as (data, _):
+            for w in data.workspaces:
+                op = layout.operator("ct.add_workspace", text=w)
+                op.workspace = w
+                op.path = template.path
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        wm = context.window_manager
+        template = pref().projects[self.index]
+        wm.popup_menu(self.draw_ws, title=f"Workspaces from '{template.name}'", icon="ADD")
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
+
+class CT_OT_start_from(Operator):
+    bl_idname = "ct.start_from"
+    bl_label = "Start from..."
+    bl_description = "Use any selected .blend file as template (and optionally add it to the list)"
+
+    filepath: StringProperty(
+        subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the .json file to load", update=on_path_update)
+    add: BoolProperty(default=False, name="Add template", description="Add this file in your templates")
+    name: StringProperty(name="Name", description="The name for this template (if empty, file name will be used)")
+
+    def execute(self, context):
+        prefs = pref()
+        if self.filepath:
+            if self.add and not already_present(self, prefs, self.filepath):
+                template = prefs.projects.add()
+                template.name = self.name if self.name else name_from_path(self.filepath)
+                template.path = self.filepath
+                context.preferences.is_dirty = True
+                
+            bpy.ops.wm.read_homefile(filepath=self.filepath)
+        else:
+            self.report({'WARNING'}, "This option can only be used from File > New menu")
+        return {'FINISHED'}
+
+    def invoke(self, context, event):
+        context.window_manager.fileselect_add(self)
+        return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}

legacy/src/prefs.py

@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+import bpy
+from bpy.types import PropertyGroup, AddonPreferences
+from bpy.props import StringProperty, CollectionProperty, IntProperty, BoolProperty
+from .funcs import on_path_update
+from .. import __name__ as base_package
+
+class TemplateItem(PropertyGroup):
+    name: StringProperty(
+        name="Name", description="Display name for this template")
+    path: StringProperty(
+        name="Path", description="Path to the .blend file for this template", subtype='FILE_PATH', update=on_path_update)
+
+class CustomTemplatesPreferences(AddonPreferences):
+    bl_idname = base_package
+
+    override_splash: BoolProperty(
+        default=True, name="Use Custom Templates", description="Override Splash Screen's 'New File' list with your Custom Templates")
+    start_from: BoolProperty(
+        default=False, name="Add option: File > New > Start from...", description="Show an option in File > New menu to start a new project from any .blend file")
+    projects: CollectionProperty(type=TemplateItem)
+    active_template_index: IntProperty(
+        description="Index of the selected template")
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+
+        layout.label(
+            text=f"Your custom templates ({len(self.projects)})")
+        row = layout.row()
+        row.template_list("UI_UL_list", "custom_templates",
+                          self, "projects", self, "active_template_index", rows=6, maxrows=6)
+        col = row.column(align=True)
+        col.menu("CT_MT_templates_menu", icon='DOWNARROW_HLT', text="")
+        col.separator()
+        col.operator("ct.add_templates_from_folder", text="", icon="FILE_FOLDER")
+        col.operator("ct.add", icon='ADD', text="")
+        col.operator("ct.remove", icon='REMOVE', text="")
+        col.separator()
+        col.operator("ct.move_up", icon='TRIA_UP', text="")
+        col.operator("ct.move_down", icon='TRIA_DOWN', text="")
+
+        if self.projects:
+            project = self.projects[self.active_template_index]
+            layout.prop(project, "path")
+            layout.prop(project, "name")
+
+        b = layout.box()
+        b.label(text="Splash Screen", icon="SETTINGS")
+        b.prop(self, "override_splash")
+        box = b.box()
+        if self.override_splash and self.projects:
+            box.label(text="Custom templates will be shown in the Splash Screen.")
+  
+        if not self.override_splash or len(self.projects) == 0:
+            box.label(
+                text="The default Blender list will be shown in the Splash Screen.", icon=("ERROR" if not self.projects else "NONE"))
+
+        b = layout.box()
+        b.label(text="Extra", icon="SETTINGS")
+        b.prop(self, "start_from")

legacy/src/splash.py

@@ -0,0 +1,69 @@
+# Ref WM_MT_splash https://projects.blender.org/blender/blender/src/commit/5a9fe638dedb179050c4929ea8fcdec80d221af2/scripts/startup/bl_operators/wm.py#L3296
+# Ref TOPBAR_MT_file_new https://projects.blender.org/blender/blender/src/commit/5a9fe638dedb179050c4929ea8fcdec80d221af2/scripts/startup/bl_ui/space_topbar.py#L286
+import bpy
+from .funcs import draw_templates, pref
+from .. import __name__ as base_package
+# Clone of the WM_MT_splash (the section under the image of the Splash)
+# It's edited (only in #Templates part) to add a menu in the New File section 
+# to switch between blender's original templates and Custom Templates.
+# If you have no custom templates, the default templates are displayed
+class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
+    bl_label = "Splash"
+
+    def draw(self, context):
+        layout = self.layout
+        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        layout.operator_context = 'EXEC_DEFAULT'
+        layout.emboss = 'PULLDOWN_MENU'
+
+        split = layout.split()
+
+        # Templates
+        colx = split.column()
+        ct_split = colx.split(factor=0.9)
+        colA = ct_split.column()
+        if prefs.override_splash and len(prefs.projects) > 0:
+            colA.label(text="Custom Templates")
+            colx.operator_context = 'INVOKE_DEFAULT'
+            draw_templates(colx, context, True)
+        else:
+            # Call original code
+            colA.label(text="New File")
+            bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.draw_ex(colx, context, use_splash=True)
+        colB = ct_split.column()
+        colB.menu("CT_MT_splash_mode", icon='DOWNARROW_HLT', text="")
+
+        # Recent
+        col2 = split.column()
+        col2_title = col2.row()
+
+        found_recent = col2.template_recent_files()
+
+        if found_recent:
+            col2_title.label(text="Recent Files")
+        else:
+
+            # Links if no recent files
+            col2_title.label(text="Getting Started")
+
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Manual", icon='URL').type = 'MANUAL'
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Blender Website", icon='URL').type = 'BLENDER'
+            col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Credits", icon='URL').type = 'CREDITS'
+
+        layout.separator()
+
+        split = layout.split()
+
+        col1 = split.column()
+        sub = col1.row()
+        sub.operator_context = 'INVOKE_DEFAULT'
+        sub.operator("wm.open_mainfile", text="Open...", icon='FILE_FOLDER')
+        col1.operator("wm.recover_last_session", icon='RECOVER_LAST')
+
+        col2 = split.column()
+
+        col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Release Notes", icon='URL').type = 'RELEASE_NOTES'
+        col2.operator("wm.url_open_preset", text="Development Fund", icon='FUND').type = 'FUND'
+
+        layout.separator()
+        layout.separator()

release-legacy.sh

@@ -0,0 +1 @@
+zip -9 -r ./releases/1.x.x/legacy/custom-templates-legacy-1.5.0.zip ./legacy/