Install PyInstaller Hooks for Custom Packages

PyInstaller converts Python scripts into standalone executables. But sometimes, it needs extra help to handle custom packages. This guide shows how to install PyInstaller hooks for custom packages.

What Are PyInstaller Hooks?

Hooks are Python scripts that tell PyInstaller how to bundle non-standard packages. They ensure all dependencies are included in the final executable.

Without hooks, PyInstaller might miss hidden imports or fail to include required files. This can cause runtime errors.

Prerequisites

Before installing hooks, ensure you have PyInstaller installed. Use this command:

pip install pyinstaller

Also, make sure your custom package is properly installed. If you need help with package installation, check our guide on how to install Param in Python.

Finding Existing Hooks

PyInstaller comes with many built-in hooks. They are located in the PyInstaller/hooks directory. Check here before creating new ones.

To find the hooks directory, run:

import PyInstaller
print(PyInstaller.__path__[0] + '/hooks/')

Creating Custom Hooks

If no hook exists for your package, create one. Hooks should be named hook-<package_name>.py.

Here's a basic hook template:

from PyInstaller.utils.hooks import collect_data_files, collect_submodules

# Include all submodules
hiddenimports = collect_submodules('your_package')

# Include data files
datas = collect_data_files('your_package')

Save this file in your project directory as hook-your_package.py.

Installing Custom Hooks

There are two ways to make PyInstaller use your hooks:

Method 1: Using --additional-hooks-dir

When building your executable, specify the hooks directory:

pyinstaller --additional-hooks-dir=path/to/hooks your_script.py

This tells PyInstaller to look in your custom directory for hooks.

Method 2: Installing Hooks in PyInstaller's Directory

For permanent installation, copy your hook file to PyInstaller's hooks directory:

cp hook-your_package.py $(python -c "import PyInstaller; print(PyInstaller.__path__[0] + '/hooks/')")

Warning: This affects all projects using PyInstaller on your system.

Testing Your Hooks

After creating hooks, test them thoroughly. Build your executable and check for missing dependencies.

For complex packages, you might need to combine hooks with other tools. For example, use pytest-cov to ensure all code paths are covered.

Common Hook Examples

Here are some common hook patterns:

Including Data Files

from PyInstaller.utils.hooks import collect_data_files

datas = collect_data_files('your_package')

Handling Hidden Imports

hiddenimports = ['module1', 'module2']

Excluding Files

excludedimports = ['unneeded_module']

Troubleshooting Hook Issues

If your hooks aren't working, try these steps:

1. Check for typos in the hook filename and contents

2. Verify the hook is in the right directory

3. Use PyInstaller's debug mode: pyinstaller --debug all your_script.py

For more complex debugging, consider using Pexpect to automate testing.

Best Practices

Follow these tips for effective hooks:

- Keep hooks as simple as possible

- Document what each hook does

- Test hooks with different Python versions

- Share useful hooks with the community

Conclusion

PyInstaller hooks are powerful tools for bundling custom packages. They ensure your executables include all necessary dependencies.

By following this guide, you can create and install hooks for any Python package. This makes your PyInstaller builds more reliable and complete.

Remember to test thoroughly and share your hooks when possible. Happy packaging!