How to use less.js with node.js to watch .less files in a folder?

Question

I am looking for a simple guide to setting up server-side watching and compiling .less files in a folder using less.js and node.js. Bryan wrote about it in this post.

Unfortunately, the instructions to Server-side usage on lesscss.org are of a little avail to somebody who is new to node.js.

I have tried command line usage: $ lessc styles.less > styles.css.

I have also tried 'watchr' and 'watch-less' and it all works. However, I am looking for a pure node.js + less.js solution. I am sure there is somebody who will be able to plainly explain how to configure node.js and less.js to watch .less files in a folder. Thanks.

Answer 1

I have created demo project to show how it works. You can find it here https://github.com/corpix/watcherDemo

After clone enter project directory and execute npm install to install less Node.js module. Try running index.js and change .less file into less_files/ directory, modified file will be compiled and placed into css_files/

Answer 2

Honestly, I have seen a lot of the same threads and answers.

If you are like me and don't want any more code bloat than you already have then just download a LESS app for Win/Mac/Nix and it will auto-compile every time you save your .less files.

I honestly think this would put less of a load on the server because you only need to upload your compiled and minified files at this point.