Setting Up a Basic Django Project Using Pipenv in VS Code

After setting up your development environment with Python, Git, Pipenv, and Visual Studio Code, the next step is to create a Django project. This post will guide you through initializing a basic Django project managed by Pipenv inside VS Code.

1. Create a Project Folder

First, create a dedicated folder for your Django project. Open your command prompt or VS Code terminal and run:

`mkdir my_django_project
cd my_django_project
`

Replace my_django_project with your desired project name.

2. Initialize Pipenv Environment

Inside your project folder, initialize a new Pipenv environment with Python 3.12.4:

`pipenv --python 3.12.4
`

This creates a virtual environment isolated from your global Python installation.

3. Install Django

Next, install Django using Pipenv:

`pipenv install django
`

This command adds Django as a dependency in your Pipfile and installs it in your virtual environment.

4. Activate the Virtual Environment

To start using the virtual environment, activate it by running:

`pipenv shell
`

You should now see your shell prompt change, indicating you are inside the Pipenv-managed environment.

5. Create a Django Project

With the environment activated, create a new Django project by running:

`django-admin startproject mysite .
`

The dot . ensures the project files are created in the current directory.

6. Apply Database Migrations

Before running your project, apply the necessary database migrations:

`py manage.py makemigrations
py manage.py migrate
`

These commands create migration files and apply them to your database.

7. Create a Superuser

To access the Django admin interface, create a superuser account by running:

`py manage.py createsuperuser
`

Follow the prompts to set username, email, and password.

8. Run Django Development Server

Start the Django development server with:

`py manage.py runserver
`

Open your browser and go to http://127.0.0.1:8000/ to see the default Django welcome page.

9. Open the Project in VS Code

If you haven’t already, open the project folder in VS Code:

• Launch VS Code

• Click File > Open Folder...

• Select your project folder (my_django_project)

VS Code will recognize your Pipenv environment automatically if you have the Python extension installed.