hatch

hatch is a modern Python project and package management tool designed to simplify development workflows through automation and standardization. It combines virtual environment management, dependency handling, project scaffolding, and publishing capabilities in a unified interface that follows Python packaging standards.

Core Functionality

• Project Creation: Scaffolds new Python projects with standardized structure
• Environment Management: Creates and controls isolated virtual environments
• Build Backend: Provides a compliant PEP 517 build backend (hatchling)
• Version Management: Handles version bumping and release tracking
• Script Execution: Runs commands in project environments

Command Examples

# Create a new project
hatch new my-project

# Run a command in project environment
hatch run pytest

# Build distribution packages
hatch build

# Publish to PyPI
hatch publish

# Create a specific environment
hatch env create docs

Pros

• Standardized: Full support for modern Python packaging standards
• Comprehensive: Handles the complete project lifecycle
• Flexible: Multiple environment types for different workflows
• Extensible: Plugin system for custom functionality
• Minimal Lock-in: Standards-based approach allows easy migration

Cons

• Learning Curve: More complex than single-purpose tools
• No First-Party Lockfile: Lacks built-in lockfile generation

Learn More

• Hatch Documentation
• GitHub Repository
• Python Packaging Authority
• Example Hatch Package