Prefab - Your projects, pre-built
Project templates for macOS. Build once, deploy anywhere.
5 followers
Project templates for macOS. Build once, deploy anywhere.
5 followers
Most project template tools are either CLI, tied to a specific ecosystem, or way too complicated for what should be a simple problem. Drag in any folder to turn it into a template. Add fill-in fields like {{client_name}} or {{project_date}} that get replaced when you deploy. Set up post-creation commands like git init or npm install to run automatically. Deploy from the app, menu bar, or right-click in Finder. It works for devs, designers, writers, freelancers. Free, no account, no tracking.
Hey! I built Prefab because I kept wasting time setting up the same folder structures for new projects. Not just the folders themselves, but the boilerplate files, the git init, the npm install. I'd find myself searching for boilerplates online - often outdated and bloated.
I looked at what was out there and it was mostly CLI scaffolding tools tied to specific frameworks, or enterprise-level solutions that were massive overkill. I just wanted something native on my Mac that let me save a folder structure, add some fill-in fields, and deploy it without thinking.
The thing that surprised me most during development was how useful it became outside of coding. I started using it for client project folders, writing projects, even just organising personal stuff. That's what led to the persona system - the app adapts its language and starter templates depending on whether you're a developer, creative, writer, or professional.
A few things I'm particularly happy with:
- You can drag any existing folder in and it becomes a template instantly
- Variables work in folder names, file names, and file contents
- Post-creation automation runs via Apple's sandboxed NSUserUnixTask, so it's properly App Store compliant - no hacky workarounds
- It lives in your menu bar and integrates with Finder's right-click menu, so it's always accessible
It's completely free - no accounts, no tracking, no IAP. I built it for myself and have been using it daily for months. Figured it was time to share it.
Would love to hear what kinds of templates people would use it for, and what features would make it more useful for your workflow.