Creating a Custom Node-RED Palette: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction:

Node-RED is a versatile open-source flow-based development tool that empowers users to create automation and IoT applications quickly and easily. One of its most powerful features is the ability to extend its functionality by creating custom nodes and palettes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your own custom Node-RED palette. You’ll learn how to build a custom node that can interact with other nodes in your flow, enabling you to tailor your Node-RED instance to your specific needs.

Step 1: Set Up Your Environment

Before diving into creating a custom palette, you need to ensure that you have Node-RED installed on your system. If you haven’t already done so, you can install it by following the official installation instructions on the Node-RED website.

Step 2: Create a Project Folder

To get started, create a project folder where you’ll develop your custom Node-RED palette. This folder will contain all the necessary files and resources for your project.

Step 3: Create a Package.json File

Inside your project folder, create a `package.json` file. This file will define the metadata for your custom palette. Here’s an example of a `package.json` file: