nuke-node-tree-patterns

Nuke Node Tree Patterns

Version: 1.0.0 Last Updated: 2026-01-21 Status: Production-ready Dependencies: Nuke Python API

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Production-tested patterns for creating robust, complex node trees programmatically in Nuke.

Purpose

This skill provides battle-tested patterns for Nuke Python automation, learned from building production tools like the auto-tiling system. These patterns solve common issues like unwanted auto-connections, positioning problems, and blending artifacts.

Core Patterns

1. Avoiding Auto-Connection Issues

Problem: nuke.createNode() auto-connects to selected nodes, causing unexpected connections.

Solution: Use nuke.nodes.X() and manage connections explicitly.

# [FAIL] BAD: Auto-connects unpredictably
transform = nuke.createNode('Transform', inpanel=False)
transform.setInput(0, input_node)  # May already be connected!

# [OK] GOOD: Explicit control
for node in nuke.allNodes():
    node.setSelected(False)  # Deselect all first

transform = nuke.nodes.Transform()  # Create without auto-connection
transform.setXYpos(x, y)            # Position first
transform.setInput(0, input_node)   # Then connect explicitly

Key Rules:

1. Always deselect all nodes before creation: for node in nuke.allNodes(): node.setSelected(False)
2. Use nuke.nodes.X() instead of nuke.createNode('X')
3. Position before connecting: setXYpos() then setInput()
4. Connect explicitly: Never rely on auto-connection

2. Dynamic Node Positioning

Problem: Hardcoded positions don't work when input nodes move.

Solution: Calculate positions relative to input node.

# [FAIL] BAD: Hardcoded positions
base_x = 0
base_y = 0

# [OK] GOOD: Dynamic from input
input_x = input_node.xpos()
input_y = input_node.ypos()
base_x = input_x + 200  # Offset to the right
base_y = input_y + 100  # Offset below

Typical Offsets:

• Horizontal spacing between tiles: 292px
• Vertical spacing (small): 43px
• Vertical spacing (before Expression): 97px
• Dot row below input: 200px