How to Make a Fabric Project Template in 3 Easy Steps

You can make your own Minecraft mod with a Fabric Project Template in just a few minutes. Many people who make mods use tools like the Fabric Template Mod Generator. Some also copy the fabric-example-mod to begin. You do not need to know a lot about coding for this. Beginners think this way is simple and fast. More people are using Fabric modding now. You can see this by looking at the number of projects on GitHub.

You can follow these steps and set up your mod project fast by using these ready-made tools.

Key Takeaways

• Get the right tools before you start. Install Java JDK (version 16 or 21). Use IntelliJ IDEA as your IDE. Make sure you have Gradle and unzip software ready.

• Make your Fabric Project Template fast. Use the Template Mod Generator. Or you can clone the fabric-example-mod from GitHub.

• Keep your project neat and special. Rename files and folders. Update configuration files. Remove placeholders to make your mod your own.

• Do not make common setup mistakes. Check your Java versions. Put client code in the right place. Make sure your build files have the correct settings.

• Follow good habits. Keep your workspace tidy. Use version control. Ask Fabric communities for help. This will help your modding go well.

Tools and Requirements

What You Need

Before you begin your Fabric modding project, you need some tools and software. These tools help you get your workspace ready and stop common mistakes.

1. Java Development Kit (JDK)
   You need to install Java. Most Fabric templates need Java 16 or Java 21. If you use the MultiLoader Template, pick Java 21. If you use the Fabric Example Mod, Java 16 is better. Your project will not work if you use the wrong Java version.

2. Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
   IntelliJ IDEA is the top choice for Fabric modding. The Community Edition is free and works well. Many people use it because it supports Java and has good plugins. Visual Studio Code is another choice, but IntelliJ IDEA is easier for new users. Eclipse is not a good idea because it can cause problems with build tools.

3. Build Tool
   Gradle helps you build your project. Most Fabric templates have a gradlew script. This script lets you build your mod without needing to install Gradle yourself.

4. Unzip Software
   You need a program like WinRAR or 7-Zip to open template files.

5. Fabric API
   The Fabric API is a library that helps your mod work with Minecraft. Most templates already include this as something your project needs.

Tip:
You can add the Fabric API plugin to IntelliJ IDEA from the plugin marketplace. This plugin helps you write and test your mod code faster.

Setup Tips

You can stop many setup mistakes by using these tips:

• Always check your Java version. If you use the wrong one, your project may show errors or not start.

• Put your client code in the right folder. Use src/client/java for client-only code. If you put it somewhere else, you might see errors like "cannot find symbol."

• Make sure your build.gradle file uses the right plugin versions. If you use the wrong version, Gradle will not find the plugin and your build will not work.

• Watch for warnings about missing reference maps for mixins. These warnings can make your mod crash. Check your mixin settings if you see them.

• Set up your gradle.properties and settings.gradle files. Put your project name and other details here to keep things clear later.

If you get these tools and follow these setup tips, you will have an easy start with Fabric modding.

Create Fabric Project Template

You can start your modding journey by creating a Fabric Project Template. This template gives you a strong foundation for your Minecraft mod. You have two main ways to set up your project. You can use the Template Mod Generator or you can clone the fabric-example-mod from GitHub. Both methods help you get a ready-to-use project structure. You can pick the one that fits your style best.

Using the Template Mod Generator

The Template Mod Generator is a web tool that helps you make a Fabric Project Template quickly. You do not need to write any code to start. You just fill out a form and download your project. Here is how you can use it:

1. Go to the Fabric Template Mod Generator website.

2. Enter your mod name. Pick a name that matches your idea.

3. Fill in the package name. Use a reversed domain format, like com.example.myfirstmod.

4. Choose the Minecraft version you want to use for your mod.

5. If you want, set advanced options. You can add Kotlin support, use Mojang's mappings, or include data generators.

6. Press the "Generate" button. The site will make a zip file for you.

7. Download and extract the zip file to a folder on your computer.

8. Open the folder in IntelliJ IDEA.

9. Let IntelliJ IDEA load the Gradle configuration. If you see a prompt, select "Import Gradle Project."

10. Check that all your project files show up in the project explorer. Now you can start working on your mod.

Tip:
The Template Mod Generator saves you time. You do not need to set up files by hand. You get a Fabric Project Template that works right away.

Cloning fabric-example-mod

You can also create a Fabric Project Template by cloning the fabric-example-mod from GitHub. This method is good if you want to see a real example of a working mod. You can change the files to fit your own project. Here are the steps:

1. Find the GitHub repository for the example mod:
   https://github.com/FabricMC/fabric-example-mod.git

2. Pick a folder on your computer where you want to put your new project.

3. Open your terminal or command prompt.

4. Type the following command to clone the repository:

git clone https://github.com/FabricMC/fabric-example-mod.git /path/to/my-mod

1. Replace /path/to/my-mod with your chosen folder path.

2. Wait for the cloning process to finish. You will see a new folder with all the project files.

3. Open the new folder in IntelliJ IDEA.

4. Let IntelliJ IDEA load the Gradle configuration. If you see a prompt, select "Import Gradle Project."

5. Check that the files appear in the project explorer. You can now start editing and building your mod.

Note:
Cloning the fabric-example-mod gives you a Fabric Project Template with working code. You can study the example files and learn how mods work.

Both methods give you a complete Fabric Project Template. You get all the folders and files you need to start making your own Minecraft mod. You can choose the Template Mod Generator for a fast setup or clone the fabric-example-mod if you want to see a real example. Either way, you will have a strong base for your modding project.

Customize Your Project

Project Structure Overview

When you open your Fabric Project Template, you will see a set of folders and files. This structure helps you organize your mod and makes it easier to find what you need. Here is how the template guides you:

1. The template gives you clear folders like src/main/java for your code and resources for assets. You should rename these to match your mod’s Maven group and mod ID. This step teaches you about package naming.

2. You will find example files such as ExampleMod.java and example_mod.mixins.json. Rename or replace these files. This shows you how to set up your own mod code and configuration.

3. Files like gradle.properties and quilt.mod.json hold important information. Update these with your mod’s name, version, and entry points.

4. Remove all placeholder names like "example." This keeps your mod unique and avoids confusion.

5. The template includes setup instructions for IntelliJ IDEA. You can follow these to import your project and add helpful plugins.

6. You should create a LICENSE file and delete any files you do not need. This keeps your project clean.

Tip:
A well-organized project structure helps you avoid mistakes and makes your mod easier to manage.

Initial Customization Steps

After you set up your Fabric Project Template, you can start making it your own. Follow these steps to customize your project:

1. Download a template that matches your needs. This saves you time and reduces changes.

2. Make small changes to the files. Rename the template and update the XML or JSON files so your mod has a unique name.

3. Upload your customized template to a test folder. Check that all files are valid and fix any errors.

4. Create a new project using your updated template. Test it to find any problems.

5. Check that all your changes work as expected before you use the template for real projects.

Common mistakes can slow you down. Watch out for these issues:

• Missing import statements for Fabric API classes can cause errors.

• Using the wrong Java version may lead to compatibility problems.

• Incorrect dependencies in build.gradle can stop your mod from building.

• Forgetting to add the Fabric Installer or Fabric API to the mods folder will prevent your mod from running.

🛠️ Note:
Always double-check your setup and files. Careful customization helps your mod work smoothly.

Tips for Success

Common Issues

When you start a Fabric project, you may face some common problems. Knowing these issues helps you avoid mistakes and fix them quickly.

• Many beginners confuse fabric types, such as knit and woven. This can cause problems with fit and durability.

• Skipping fabric preparation, like pre-washing and ironing, often leads to shrinkage and cutting errors.

• Using the wrong sewing machine needle can damage your fabric and create poor stitches.

• If you skip making a test swatch, you might waste fabric or end up with a bad fit.

• Dull scissors or low-quality tools make cutting hard and can ruin your project.

• Patterned fabrics can be tricky. If you do not match stripes or plaids, your project may look unprofessional.

Tip:
Always measure your fabric needs carefully. Buy a little extra (about 10-20%) to allow for shrinkage and mistakes.

If you run into setup errors, try these steps:

1. Check that you completed all setup scripts with the right names and addresses.

2. Make sure your network devices send and receive the correct packets.

3. Confirm that all parts of your system are registered and have the right IDs.

4. Use diagnostic commands to check for system errors or mismatches.

Best Practices

You can keep your Fabric project clean and organized by following some simple habits.

1. Store your fabrics away from light. Use opaque containers or close blinds to prevent fading.

2. Fold fabrics on acid-free boards and keep them in labeled bins or baskets.

3. Sort your fabrics by type or size. Large pieces can go on hangers, while scraps fit in small containers.

4. Keep your workspace clean. Store patterns and tools in separate organizers.

5. Label everything clearly. Pin color swatches to bins so you can find what you need fast.

🗂️ Note:
Organizing your project like a museum curator helps you work faster and reduces stress.

Using version control systems like Git also improves your workflow. You can organize different versions of your mod, automate releases, and work with others easily. GitHub Actions help you handle tasks like changelogs and version updates. Clear commit messages make it easy to track changes and fix problems.

By following these tips, you set yourself up for a smooth and successful Fabric modding experience.

---

You can make a Fabric Project Template in three simple steps. First, get your tools ready. Next, set up your template. Last, change the project to fit your needs. This way is good for beginners. It helps you start modding quickly. If you want to learn more or try harder things, there are many guides you can use:

You can also join groups that help:

• The Fabric Discord server gives support.

• Minecraft Forums are for talking about projects.

Start making mods today and find new ways to use Fabric.

FAQ

How do you update your Fabric Project Template for a new Minecraft version?

You open your build.gradle file. Change the Minecraft version number to the latest one. Save the file. Run the Gradle sync in your IDE. This updates your project to work with the new version.

Can you use the Fabric Template Mod Generator on a Chromebook?

Yes! You can use the web-based Fabric Template Mod Generator on a Chromebook. Download the generated zip file. Extract it using the built-in file manager or a zip app. Open the project in an online IDE like Gitpod.

What should you do if your mod will not build?

• Check your Java version.

• Make sure all dependencies in build.gradle are correct.

• Run ./gradlew build in your terminal.

• Fix any errors shown in the output.

Do you need to know Java to start with Fabric modding?

You do not need to be an expert. You can follow guides and use templates. Learning basic Java helps you understand how mods work. Start with simple changes and build your skills over time.

Where can you get help if you get stuck?

Join the Fabric Discord server for quick answers.
Post your question on Minecraft Forums.
Search the Fabric Wiki for guides and troubleshooting tips.