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Your First Tool

Now that you have PegBoard and the design software loaders installed, let's create your first automation tool.

Getting Started​

On first launch, you'll select a pricing plan that determines your authentication mode:

  • Free tier - Uses BYOK (Bring Your Own Key) mode where you provide your own Claude API credentials
  • Plus/Business tiers - Uses Managed mode with built-in AI and monthly credits
  • Enterprise tier - Contact sales for custom setup, defaults to BYOK mode

You can change modes later in Settings (subscription required for Managed mode).

For Free Tier Users (BYOK Mode)​

If you selected the Free tier, you'll need to authenticate Claude Code before creating your first tool:

  1. Open your terminal and run: claude login
  2. Follow the authentication flow (uses your Claude Pro/Team subscription or API credits)
  3. Return to PegBoard and click "New Tool"

Your credentials are stored locally - you only need to do this once.

tip

Not sure how to set up Claude Code? Check the Claude Code documentation for detailed instructions.

For Paid Tier Users (Managed Mode)​

If you subscribed to Plus or Business, no additional setup is needed - just start creating tools with your included monthly credits.

Generate Your First Tool with AI​

Create custom tools using AI:

  1. Open PegBoard → Click "New Tool"
  2. Choose your software from the dropdown (Blender, SketchUp, Rhino, or Revit)
  3. Describe what you want in plain language
  4. Click Generate and let AI create your tool
  5. The tool appears in your workspace and software loader

Using Your Tool​

Once you've created or cloned a tool, you can run it directly in your design software. See Using Your Tools for detailed instructions on accessing and running tools in Blender, SketchUp, Rhino, or Revit.

Need Help?​

  • Tool not working? With the PegBoard app, you can send errors for automatic fixes
  • Want changes? Continue the conversation with AI to refine your tool
  • Can't find your tool? Click "Refresh" in the loader or check the FAQ
  • Looking for more tools? Browse the Tool Library for community contributions