OpenPencil MCP
OpenPencil's MCP server: agents inspect designs, edit layers and export assets, including .fig files, without Figma.
- 9,664 ★ on the repository
- Last commit
- MIT
Extended access
Why this level
- The server reads and edits design files under the MCP root; HTTP mode listens on a local port.
Install
- Works in
Manual install
npm install -g @open-pencil/mcpThe first command from the README MCP section. For Claude Code then run `claude mcp add --scope user open-pencil -- openpencil-mcp`.
Access and checks
How we reviewExtended accessThe tool runs code or makes network calls and only reads external data.
- The server reads and edits design files under the MCP root; HTTP mode listens on a local port.
This is third-party code. Review the repository files before installing.
What it does
OpenPencil, an open design editor positioned as a Figma alternative, includes the `@open-pencil/mcp` package. Through it Claude Code, Cursor, Windsurf and other clients inspect a design document, change it and export the result. The tools match those of the editor's built-in AI chat. The server runs over stdio (the `openpencil-mcp` command) or Streamable HTTP (`openpencil-mcp-http`, at `http://127.0.0.1:7600/mcp`). File access is limited to the MCP root: the `OPENPENCIL_MCP_ROOT` variable, the current folder by default.
Who it is for. Designers and frontend developers who hand layout inspection and asset export from `.fig` files to an agent and avoid Figma's closed API.
Good fit when
- An agent walks through layout structure and lists design tokens.
- PNG, SVG, PDF or JSX is exported from a `.fig` file without opening the editor.
- A CI script queries design data over HTTP.
- A designer asks the agent to adjust layers, auto-layout or variables in an open document.
Not a fit when
- Team designs live only in Figma's cloud.
- Edits need mouse selection of layers with no app running.
- The HTTP server would be exposed publicly without a restricted file root.
Example request
Open `design.fig`, print the layer tree and export the login screen to SVG, naming the color variables it uses.MCP
- Transport
- stdio, http
- Authentication
- not required
Environment variables
`OPENPENCIL_MCP_ROOT`- Folder that limits the server's file access, the current directory by default.
Limitations
The agent mode inside the editor panel needs the desktop app. At the time of review the package version in the repository is beta (`0.17.0-beta.2`). The server can reach files under the MCP root, so point `OPENPENCIL_MCP_ROOT` at a single folder. Not every AI provider streams tool calls correctly; measured compatibility is collected in the docs. For HTTP mode keep to the local `127.0.0.1` address and do not publish the port externally.
How to disable. Run `claude mcp remove open-pencil` or delete the `open-pencil` entry from the client's MCP settings, then stop `openpencil-mcp-http` if it was started.
FAQ
How do I connect the server to Claude Code?
Install the package with `npm install -g @open-pencil/mcp` and add the server: `claude mcp add --scope user open-pencil -- openpencil-mcp`. Other clients list the `openpencil-mcp` command under `mcpServers`.
How does stdio differ from HTTP?
Stdio runs `openpencil-mcp` for clients such as Claude Code and Cursor. `openpencil-mcp-http` listens on `http://127.0.0.1:7600/mcp` for scripts and CI.
How do I restrict file access?
The `OPENPENCIL_MCP_ROOT` variable sets the folder. It defaults to the current directory.
Is there a separate skill?
Yes, `npx skills add open-pencil/open-pencil` teaches an agent to use OpenPencil in Claude Code, Cursor, Windsurf and Codex.
Which clients are supported?
The README names Claude Code, Cursor and Windsurf, and any MCP client will do.
Discussion
No questions or reviews yet.
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Comparison with similar tools
Cards that share the main search query, and how they differ.
| Tool | Official | Authentication | Repository stars | Main difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OpenPencil (this card) | yes | not required | 9,664 | |
| Figma Console MCP | no | API key | 3,193 | drives Figma through a plugin console; OpenPencil works with its own editor and local `.fig` files |
| Figma MCP Server | yes | OAuth | 2,158 | reads designs through Figma's API; here an open editor and export without a cloud |
README in short
The README section on AI and MCP covers a built-in chat with 100+ tools, external agents over MCP, a separate skill and `llms.txt` documentation.