Adding content to an existing SharePoint solution file (WSP)

Question

I want to add a list, library, and custom web part to an existing .WSP file. I cracked open the existing .WSP file (renamed it to .cab and extracted it) and it contains list instance templates, template modules, and web templates. Is what I want to do possible?

Answer 1

The only method I can think of, which is Alex's, seems quite messy in my opinion, and might break current sites that use any templates built from that WSP.

My suggestion is to start a new solution in visual studio, and have it supplement your WSP.

That way, you have complete control over the solution as you have the source right there.

Answer 2

Yes, it's possible. A solution package is a simple CAB archive with files and several instruction files. You need to modify solution's manifest and DDF file with instructions to makecab.exe. See the details here: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa543741.aspx