Update README_EXT

CHANGELOG.md

@@ -1,3 +1,15 @@
+## 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

README.md

@@ -1,12 +1,14 @@
-# Custom Templates - Add-On
+# Custom Templates
+
+## The Freedom to *Template*
 
 **Custom Templates** allows you to use your own .blend files as template options for new projects.
 
 ---
 
-- [Getting Started](#getting-started)
-- [Why *Custom Templates*?](#why-custom-templates)
-- [Support](#support)
+- [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)
 
@@ -16,83 +18,6 @@
 
 Your templates will be avaliable in the Splash Screen and the `File > New` menu.
 
-## Getting Started
-
-- **Prepare your templates** and save them **in `.blend` files**  
-*or find online `.blend` templates that fits your needs*
-- **Define your templates** in the add-on's preferences  
-    *It's simple. Select a `.blend` file and name your template.*  
-    You can do this:
-    1) Directly from add-on preferences, in the templates list  
-    2) By using `File > Defaults > Add from folder`  
-    *Select a folder (and optionally a recursion depth, default 1) and find `.blend` files to use as template. By default, the clean file name will be used as name for the new templates.*
-    3) By using `File > Defaults > Select new template`  
-    *Popup to specify name and path for the new template.*
-    4) By using `File > Defaults > Use current file as template` *(only avaliable when a saved .blend file is currently loaded)*  
-    *Popup to specify the name for the new template. The path will be the one of the current .blend file.*
-    5) By importing a previously exported templates list from JSON file  
-    *(Either using `File > Defaults > Import Templates` as well as from the menu located in the top right of the templates list in the preferences)*  
-    *Note: the import process override the current list. Be sure to export the current list, if necessary.*
-
-> *You can add, remove, reorder and update your templates any time...*
-
-- *(Optionally)* **Export** your templates list to **JSON file**  
-  *From `File > Defaults > Export templates`, or from the add-on preferences menu.*
-  *Useful after disabling and re-enabling the add-on, re-installing blender, or simply to prepare different sets of templates to import when needed.*
-
-At this point your templates will be avaliable in the `File > New` menu and in the Splash Screen.
-
-> You can update the contents of your `.blend` templates at any time. The file is read each time you open the template.
-
-#### Splash Screen
-
-From the Splash Screen (or from preferences), you can easily switch between your Custom Templates and Blender's default templates.  
-> *This only applies to the splash screen.  
-> `File > New` menu will always show all your templates.*
-
-Notes:
-
-- With more than 5 templates, only the first 5 will be shown in the splash. If this is your case, be sure to reorder on top the 5 you want to see in the splash.
-- If you have no templates currently defined, Blender's default list will always be used (to avoid empty list in splash)
-
-### Why *Custom Templates*?
-
-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?
-
-With **Custom Templates** you can setup as many .blend file as you like, as templates.
-
----
-
-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!*
-
-### Support
-
-The versions avaliable at extensions.blender.org and directly from Blender's preferences, supports Blender 4.2 and later versions.
-
----
-
-#### Legacy
-
-From `v1.3.1`, a [legacy version](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/releases/tag/v1.3.1) has been made and tested on the following LTS previous versions:
-
-- Blender `3.6 LTS`
-- Blender `3.3 LTS`
-- Blender `2.93 LTS`
-- Blender `2.83 LTS`
-- *And may of may not work on other not-LTS previous versions*
-
-If you are *not* using a version of Blender that supports the Extensions Platform, you can:
-[Download the legacy version](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/releases/tag/v1.3.1).
-
-> **Note**
-> Only setup templates compatible with your current version of blender, otherwise you might get a warning or a crash (especially on Blender 2.x versions) while opening your templates.
-
 ### Changelog
 
 Visit the [CHANGELOG](./CHANGELOG.md) file to see the changes over new version.  

README_EXT.md

@@ -1,50 +1,52 @@
+# 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.  
-
-Your templates will be added in the `File > New` menu and in the Splash Screen *(according to preferences)*.
+*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!*  
-#### Import/Export
 
-When your templates are ready, you can export the list to JSON file.  
-This way, you will be able to easily restore your templates, if necessary.  
-*For example, after disabling and re-enabling the add-on...*
+*The only limit is your immagination!*  
 
 ---
 
 #### Features
+
 - Show your templates in `File > New` menu and in the Splash Screen  
-- Add, remove, update, reorder your templates from add-on preferences
+- 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
 
-From version `1.3.1` it's also avaliable a [legacy version](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/releases/tag/v1.3.1), for previous Blender versions.
+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 [README](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/src/branch/main/README.md) ([Getting Started](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/src/branch/main/README.md#getting-started))*
+*For more details checkout the project's [Wiki](https://projects.blender.org/Francesco-Bellini/custom_templates_addon/wiki).*
 
 ---
 

addon/__init__.py

@@ -14,9 +14,12 @@
 # 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 .classes.draw import draw_file_new_templates, draw_file_default_operators, draw_ws_menu_add
-from .classes.splash import WM_MT_splash, CT_MT_splash_mode, CT_OT_splash_custom, CT_OT_splash_default
-from .classes.ots import CustomTemplatesPreferences, TemplateItem, CT_OT_export_templates, CT_OT_import_templates, CT_MT_templates_menu, 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_MT_workspace_add, CT_OT_template_workspaces, CT_OT_add_workspace
+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",
@@ -30,17 +33,16 @@ bl_info = {
 }
 
 classes = [WM_MT_splash,
-           CT_OT_add_workspace,
-           CT_OT_template_workspaces,
            CT_MT_workspace_add,
-           TemplateItem,
-           CT_OT_export_templates,
-           CT_OT_import_templates,
-           CT_OT_splash_custom, 
-           CT_OT_splash_default,
-           CT_OT_open_preferences,
            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,
@@ -49,26 +51,27 @@ classes = [WM_MT_splash,
            CT_OT_add_template_popup,
            CT_OT_select_template_popup,
            CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder,
+           TemplateItem,
            CustomTemplatesPreferences]
 
-og_splash = None;
+og_splash = None
 
 def register():
     global og_splash
-    og_splash = bpy.types.WM_MT_splash;
+    og_splash = bpy.types.WM_MT_splash
     for c in classes:
         bpy.utils.register_class(c)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.append(draw_file_new_templates)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.append(draw_file_default_operators)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.append(draw_ws_menu_add)
+    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)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_file_new_templates)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.remove(draw_file_default_operators)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.remove(draw_ws_menu_add)
+    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()

addon/blender_manifest.toml

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 schema_version = "1.0.0"
 id = "custom_templates"
-version = "1.4.0"
+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>"
@@ -11,4 +11,4 @@ blender_version_min = "4.2.0"
 license = ["SPDX:GPL-3.0-or-later"]
 copyright = ["2024 Francesco Bellini"]
 [permissions]
-files = "JSON Import/Export of templates list / Add from folder feature"
+files = "JSON Import/Export of templates list / Add templates from folder"

addon/src/funcs.py

@@ -1,21 +1,54 @@
-from .. import __package__ as base_package
-from .ots import name_from_path
+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
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-    if len(prefs.projects) > 0:
+    if has_templates():
         layout.separator()
     draw_templates(layout, context)
 
 def draw_templates(layout, context, splash_mode=False):
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-    for i in range(min(5, len(prefs.projects)) if splash_mode else len(prefs.projects)):
+    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
@@ -39,8 +72,6 @@ def draw_file_default_operators(self, context):
 
 def draw_ws_menu_add(self, context):
     layout = self.layout
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-    if prefs.projects:
+    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

@@ -1,103 +1,10 @@
-from .. import __package__ as base_package
 import os
 import bpy
 import json
-from bpy.types import Operator, Menu, PropertyGroup, AddonPreferences
-from bpy.props import StringProperty, CollectionProperty, IntProperty, BoolProperty
-
-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
-
-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")
-    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"))
-
-        if len(self.projects) > 5:
-            box.label(
-                text="Note: Only the first 5 templates in the list will be shown in the splash screen.")
-        
-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")
+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"
@@ -108,7 +15,7 @@ class CT_OT_export_templates(Operator):
         subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the path for the exported file", default="templates.json")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         with open(self.filepath, 'w') as f:
             projects = [{"name": project.name, "path": project.path}
                         for project in prefs.projects]
@@ -123,7 +30,7 @@ class CT_OT_export_templates(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_import_templates(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.import_templates"
@@ -134,7 +41,7 @@ class CT_OT_import_templates(Operator):
         subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the .json file to load")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
 
         if os.path.exists(self.filepath):
             with open(self.filepath, 'r') as f:
@@ -164,7 +71,7 @@ class CT_OT_add(Operator):
     bl_description = "Add new template"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         prefs.projects.add()
         prefs.active_template_index = len(prefs.projects) - 1
         context.preferences.is_dirty = True
@@ -176,7 +83,7 @@ class CT_OT_remove(Operator):
     bl_description = "Remove selected template"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        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)
@@ -185,7 +92,7 @@ class CT_OT_remove(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.move_up"
@@ -193,7 +100,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
     bl_description = "Move the selected template up in the list"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         index = prefs.active_template_index
 
         if index > 0:
@@ -206,7 +113,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.move_down"
@@ -214,7 +121,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
     bl_description = "Move the selected template down in the list"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         index = prefs.active_template_index
 
         if index < len(prefs.projects) - 1:
@@ -227,7 +134,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.clear"
@@ -235,7 +142,7 @@ class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
     bl_description = "Clear the current list of templates (remove all templates)"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         prefs.projects.clear()
         prefs.active_template_index = 0
         context.preferences.is_dirty = True
@@ -246,7 +153,7 @@ class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_add_template_popup(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.add_template_popup"
@@ -256,7 +163,7 @@ class CT_OT_add_template_popup(Operator):
     name: StringProperty(name="Project Name")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         if not already_present(self, prefs, bpy.data.filepath):
             if bpy.data.filepath:
                 new_project = prefs.projects.add()
@@ -283,7 +190,7 @@ class CT_OT_select_template_popup(Operator):
     name: StringProperty(name="Template Name")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         if not already_present(self, prefs, self.path):
             template = prefs.projects.add()
             template.name = self.name
@@ -297,7 +204,7 @@ class CT_OT_select_template_popup(Operator):
     def invoke(self, context, event):
         return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
 
-class CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder(bpy.types.Operator):
+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"
@@ -308,7 +215,7 @@ class CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder(bpy.types.Operator):
         name="Depth", description="Depth of recursion (default 1)", default=1, min=1)
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
 
         if os.path.exists(self.directory):
             blend_files = []
@@ -376,7 +283,7 @@ class CT_OT_template_workspaces(Operator):
 
     def draw_ws(self, s, context):
         layout = s.layout
-        template = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects[self.index]
+        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)
@@ -388,18 +295,34 @@ class CT_OT_template_workspaces(Operator):
 
     def invoke(self, context, event):
         wm = context.window_manager
-        template = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects[self.index]
+        template = pref().projects[self.index]
         wm.popup_menu(self.draw_ws, title=f"Workspaces from '{template.name}'", icon="ADD")
         return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
 
-class CT_MT_workspace_add(Menu):
-    bl_label = "Add workspace from Custom Templates"
+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)"
 
-    def draw(self, context):
-        layout = self.layout
-        templates = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.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
+    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

@@ -1,8 +1,8 @@
 # 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
-from .. import __package__ as base_package
-from .draw import draw_templates
 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.
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
     
     def draw(self, context):
         layout = self.layout
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         layout.operator_context = 'EXEC_DEFAULT'
         layout.emboss = 'PULLDOWN_MENU'
         split = layout.split()
@@ -26,8 +26,8 @@ class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
             col1.operator_context = 'INVOKE_DEFAULT'
             draw_templates(col1, context, True)
         else:
-            colA.label(text="New File")
             # 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="")
@@ -71,46 +71,3 @@ class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
             self.layout.label(text="Running in Offline Mode", icon='INTERNET_OFFLINE')
 
         layout.separator()
-
-class CT_MT_splash_mode(bpy.types.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 = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-        def_check = 'NONE'
-        ct_check = 'NONE'
-        if prefs.override_splash:
-            ct_check = "CHECKMARK"
-        else:
-            def_check = "CHECKMARK"
-            
-        layout.operator("ct.open_preferences", text="Manage templates")
-        layout.separator()
-        layout.operator("ct.splash_custom", text="Use Custom Templates", icon=ct_check)
-        layout.operator("ct.splash_default", text="Use Blender's Default", icon=def_check)
-        
-class CT_OT_splash_default(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "ct.splash_default"
-    bl_label = "Display default Blender's templates"
-    bl_description = "Use Blender's default templates in the Splash Screen"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-        prefs.override_splash = False
-        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-    
-class CT_OT_splash_custom(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "ct.splash_custom"
-    bl_label = "Display your custom templates"
-    bl_description = "Use your custom templates in the Splash Screen (limited to first 5)"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-        prefs.override_splash = True
-        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-    

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

@@ -14,32 +14,36 @@
 # 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 .classes.draw import draw_file_new_templates, draw_file_default_operators, draw_ws_menu_add
-from .classes.splash import WM_MT_splash, CT_MT_splash_mode, CT_OT_splash_custom, CT_OT_splash_default
-from .classes.ots import CustomTemplatesPreferences, TemplateItem, CT_OT_export_templates, CT_OT_import_templates, CT_MT_templates_menu, 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_MT_workspace_add, CT_OT_template_workspaces, CT_OT_add_workspace
+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_OT_add_workspace,
-           CT_OT_template_workspaces,
            CT_MT_workspace_add,
-           TemplateItem,
-           CT_OT_export_templates,
-           CT_OT_import_templates,
-           CT_OT_splash_custom, 
-           CT_OT_splash_default,
-           CT_OT_open_preferences,
            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,
@@ -48,26 +52,27 @@ classes = [WM_MT_splash,
            CT_OT_add_template_popup,
            CT_OT_select_template_popup,
            CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder,
+           TemplateItem,
            CustomTemplatesPreferences]
 
-og_splash = None;
+og_splash = None
 
 def register():
     global og_splash
-    og_splash = bpy.types.WM_MT_splash;
+    og_splash = bpy.types.WM_MT_splash
     for c in classes:
         bpy.utils.register_class(c)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.append(draw_file_new_templates)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.append(draw_file_default_operators)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.append(draw_ws_menu_add)
+    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)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_new.remove(draw_file_new_templates)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_file_defaults.remove(draw_file_default_operators)
-    bpy.types.TOPBAR_MT_workspace_menu.remove(draw_ws_menu_add)
+    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

@@ -1,21 +1,54 @@
-from .. import __name__ as base_package
-from .ots import name_from_path
+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
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-    if len(prefs.projects) > 0:
+    if has_templates():
         layout.separator()
     draw_templates(layout, context)
 
 def draw_templates(layout, context, splash_mode=False):
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-    for i in range(min(5, len(prefs.projects)) if splash_mode else len(prefs.projects)):
+    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
@@ -39,8 +72,6 @@ def draw_file_default_operators(self, context):
 
 def draw_ws_menu_add(self, context):
     layout = self.layout
-    prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-    if prefs.projects:
+    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

@@ -1,103 +1,10 @@
-from .. import __name__ as base_package
 import os
 import bpy
 import json
-from bpy.types import Operator, Menu, Header, PropertyGroup, AddonPreferences
-from bpy.props import StringProperty, CollectionProperty, IntProperty, BoolProperty
-
-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
-
-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")
-    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"))
-
-        if len(self.projects) > 5:
-            box.label(
-                text="Note: Only the first 5 templates in the list will be shown in the splash screen.")
-        
-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")
+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"
@@ -108,7 +15,7 @@ class CT_OT_export_templates(Operator):
         subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the path for the exported file", default="templates.json")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         with open(self.filepath, 'w') as f:
             projects = [{"name": project.name, "path": project.path}
                         for project in prefs.projects]
@@ -123,7 +30,7 @@ class CT_OT_export_templates(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_import_templates(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.import_templates"
@@ -134,7 +41,7 @@ class CT_OT_import_templates(Operator):
         subtype="FILE_PATH", description="Select the .json file to load")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
 
         if os.path.exists(self.filepath):
             with open(self.filepath, 'r') as f:
@@ -164,7 +71,7 @@ class CT_OT_add(Operator):
     bl_description = "Add new template"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         prefs.projects.add()
         prefs.active_template_index = len(prefs.projects) - 1
         context.preferences.is_dirty = True
@@ -176,7 +83,7 @@ class CT_OT_remove(Operator):
     bl_description = "Remove selected template"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        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)
@@ -185,7 +92,7 @@ class CT_OT_remove(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.move_up"
@@ -193,7 +100,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
     bl_description = "Move the selected template up in the list"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         index = prefs.active_template_index
 
         if index > 0:
@@ -206,7 +113,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_up(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.move_down"
@@ -214,7 +121,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
     bl_description = "Move the selected template down in the list"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         index = prefs.active_template_index
 
         if index < len(prefs.projects) - 1:
@@ -227,7 +134,7 @@ class CT_OT_move_down(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.clear"
@@ -235,7 +142,7 @@ class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
     bl_description = "Clear the current list of templates (remove all templates)"
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         prefs.projects.clear()
         prefs.active_template_index = 0
         context.preferences.is_dirty = True
@@ -246,7 +153,7 @@ class CT_OT_clear(Operator):
 
     @classmethod
     def poll(cls, context):
-        return len(context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects) > 0
+        return has_templates()
 
 class CT_OT_add_template_popup(Operator):
     bl_idname = "ct.add_template_popup"
@@ -256,7 +163,7 @@ class CT_OT_add_template_popup(Operator):
     name: StringProperty(name="Project Name")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         if not already_present(self, prefs, bpy.data.filepath):
             if bpy.data.filepath:
                 new_project = prefs.projects.add()
@@ -283,7 +190,7 @@ class CT_OT_select_template_popup(Operator):
     name: StringProperty(name="Template Name")
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
         if not already_present(self, prefs, self.path):
             template = prefs.projects.add()
             template.name = self.name
@@ -297,7 +204,7 @@ class CT_OT_select_template_popup(Operator):
     def invoke(self, context, event):
         return context.window_manager.invoke_props_dialog(self)
 
-class CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder(bpy.types.Operator):
+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"
@@ -308,7 +215,7 @@ class CT_OT_add_templates_from_folder(bpy.types.Operator):
         name="Depth", description="Depth of recursion (default 1)", default=1, min=1)
 
     def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
+        prefs = pref()
 
         if os.path.exists(self.directory):
             blend_files = []
@@ -376,7 +283,7 @@ class CT_OT_template_workspaces(Operator):
 
     def draw_ws(self, s, context):
         layout = s.layout
-        template = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects[self.index]
+        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)
@@ -388,18 +295,34 @@ class CT_OT_template_workspaces(Operator):
 
     def invoke(self, context, event):
         wm = context.window_manager
-        template = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.projects[self.index]
+        template = pref().projects[self.index]
         wm.popup_menu(self.draw_ws, title=f"Workspaces from '{template.name}'", icon="ADD")
         return {'RUNNING_MODAL'}
 
-class CT_MT_workspace_add(Menu):
-    bl_label = "Add workspace from Custom Templates"
+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)"
 
-    def draw(self, context):
-        layout = self.layout
-        templates = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences.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
+    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

@@ -1,8 +1,8 @@
 # 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
-from .. import __name__ as base_package
-from .draw import draw_templates
 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.
@@ -27,8 +27,8 @@ class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
             colx.operator_context = 'INVOKE_DEFAULT'
             draw_templates(colx, context, True)
         else:
-            colA.label(text="New File")
             # 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="")
@@ -67,46 +67,3 @@ class WM_MT_splash(bpy.types.Menu):
 
         layout.separator()
         layout.separator()
-
-class CT_MT_splash_mode(bpy.types.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 = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-        def_check = 'NONE'
-        ct_check = 'NONE'
-        if prefs.override_splash:
-            ct_check = "CHECKMARK"
-        else:
-            def_check = "CHECKMARK"
-            
-        layout.operator("ct.open_preferences", text="Manage templates")
-        layout.separator()
-        layout.operator("ct.splash_custom", text="Use Custom Templates", icon=ct_check)
-        layout.operator("ct.splash_default", text="Use Blender's Default", icon=def_check)
-        
-class CT_OT_splash_default(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "ct.splash_default"
-    bl_label = "Display default Blender's templates"
-    bl_description = "Use Blender's default templates in the Splash Screen"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-        prefs.override_splash = False
-        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-    
-class CT_OT_splash_custom(bpy.types.Operator):
-    bl_idname = "ct.splash_custom"
-    bl_label = "Display your custom templates"
-    bl_description = "Use your custom templates in the Splash Screen (limited to first 5)"
-
-    def execute(self, context):
-        prefs = context.preferences.addons[base_package].preferences
-        prefs.override_splash = True
-        context.preferences.is_dirty = True
-        return {'FINISHED'}
-    

release-legacy.sh

@@ -1 +1 @@
-zip -9 -r ./releases/1.x.x/legacy/custom-templates-legacy-1.3.1.zip ./legacy/ 
+zip -9 -r ./releases/1.x.x/legacy/custom-templates-legacy-1.5.0.zip ./legacy/