reportlab

Generate single-page and multi-page PDF documents with Python's ReportLab Canvas and Platypus APIs.

16|7|Updated Nov 20, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jackspace/ClaudeSkillz --skill reportlab
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: reportlab
Source: https://github.com/jackspace/ClaudeSkillz/tree/main/skills/scientific-pkg-reportlab
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jackspace/ClaudeSkillz --skill reportlab

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Automate high-quality PDF creation with Python using Canvas and Platypus, enabling scalable reports, invoices, charts, and forms.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Canvas & Platypus: Low-level drawing and high-level document assembly
  • Charts & Tables: Rich formatting, charts, and tables
  • Barcodes/QR: Barcode generation and QR codes
  • Templates & Forms: Creating forms and complex layouts

Quick Start

Install ReportLab and run the sample to generate a PDF such as 'output.pdf' or create a simple document template.

Frequently Asked Questions about reportlab

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I generate PDF documents programmatically with Python?

Generate PDF documents programmatically using Python's ReportLab library, which provides Canvas for precise drawing and Platypus for flowing layouts. Create single-page or multi-page PDFs with text, images, tables, and charts by writing Python code that assembles content and renders it to a PDF file.

Can I create invoices and reports as PDFs with Python?

Yes, ReportLab enables automated PDF creation for invoices, reports, and certificates. Use Platypus for document assembly with flowing text and Canvas for custom positioning, combining both APIs to build templated, multi-page business documents with tables, custom fonts, and rich formatting.

What's the best way to add barcodes and QR codes to PDF files?

ReportLab includes barcode and QR code generation capabilities built into its PDF toolkit. Insert barcodes and QR codes directly into your PDFs alongside text, images, and tables using Canvas or Platypus, automating label and form creation without external dependencies.

Can I create fillable forms and add encryption to PDFs with Python?

ReportLab supports standard PDF features including form fields, links, bookmarks, and encryption. Build interactive forms and apply security settings programmatically within Python, enabling document protection and user interaction without separate PDF manipulation libraries.

How do I position content precisely in a PDF layout?

Use ReportLab's Canvas API for low-level, pixel-precise positioning of text, images, and shapes. Canvas gives you absolute coordinate control for custom layouts, while Platypus handles automatic flowing content; combine both approaches for exact placement with structured document assembly.

Does Python's ReportLab support custom fonts and rich text formatting?

Yes, ReportLab supports custom fonts, styled text, and rich formatting for tables and charts. Define typography, colors, and layouts programmatically, enabling branded, professionally formatted PDFs with consistent styling across invoices, reports, and other multi-page documents.