Ignite

Introducing the Ignite Project

Ignite is a groundbreaking tool designed specifically for Swift developers who are looking to create stunning websites effortlessly. Unlike traditional methods that convert SwiftUI code to HTML or map HTML tags to Swift code, Ignite promises a more intuitive experience by using syntax reminiscent of SwiftUI. This approach ensures that even developers without any prior knowledge of HTML or CSS can craft beautiful and responsive websites.

Getting Started with Ignite

Starting with Ignite is straightforward. By using its command-line tool, developers can dive right into their web projects:

1. Clone the repository with the command git clone https://github.com/twostraws/Ignite.
2. Navigate to the directory using cd Ignite.
3. Build the tool by running make.
4. Install it using make install or sudo make install if you encounter permission issues.

After installation, one can create a new site by simply typing:

ignite new ExampleSite

The command-line tool also supports previewing the site with ignite run --preview, enabling developers to test their sites across devices seamlessly.

Previewing Your Site

It's crucial not to preview your site by directly opening files in the browser, as this may lead to improper display without including necessary stylesheets and scripts. Instead, using the Ignite CLI tool ensures everything is displayed correctly.

See Ignite in Action

The IgniteSamples repository is a treasure trove of examples demonstrating Ignite's capabilities. From text and links to more advanced components like dropdowns and accordions, Ignite offers an extensive suite of elements styled and programmed in a manner akin to SwiftUI:

Text("Swift rocks").font(.title1)
Text(markdown: "Add *inline* Markdown").foregroundStyle(.secondary)
Link("Swift", target: "https://www.swift.org").linkStyle(.button)
Divider()
Image("logo.jpg").accessibilityLabel("The Swift logo.").padding()

Ignite even accommodates more intricate widgets such as dropdown menus and accordions that enhance user interaction with dynamic content.

Folder Structure

Ignite sites leverage a specific folder structure to optimize the building process:

• Assets: For all custom site assets.
• Build: The output directory for built sites.
• Content: Houses Markdown files for site pages.
• Includes: For any additional HTML code.
• Sources: The main directory for Swift code.

This organized structure is pivotal for seamless content management and site building.

Creating Layouts

Users can add Markdown files to the Content folder to have them rendered as HTML, and these require an appropriate layout to be provided. By creating custom layouts conforming to a specific protocol, developers can ensure that all content displays beautifully and consistently.

Command-Line Functionality

The Ignite command-line tool isn't just for creating new sites. It supports building (ignite build) and previewing (ignite run --preview) websites, offering a robust toolset for continuous development and testing. Developers can always check configuration options using ignite help.

Websites Made with Ignite

Ignite has already been used to build impressive websites. Notable examples include:

• jcalderita Portfolio (Source)
• Fotogroep de Gender (Source)

Contribution and Licensing

Ignite thrives due to its open and welcoming community. Contributors can help in various ways, be it by enhancing code, fixing bugs, or improving documentation. Every line of code is shared under the MIT license, ensuring broad accessibility and freedom of usage.

Ignite stands as a testament to its creator, Paul Hudson, and contributors like Henrik Christensen, Michael Freiwald, and Jobert Sá, fostering an ecosystem where ease meets efficiency in web development.