Tailwind's MCP (Model Context Protocol) server lets AI assistants securely access your Tailwind account. The server is located at mcp.tailwind.ai. You can connect in two ways: OAuth (enter the server URL in an assistant's built-in connector and authorize access) or an API key created under Settings → Integrations for CLI-based or config-file-based tools.
Two ways to connect
OAuth — used by AI assistants that have a built-in connector interface, such as Claude Desktop and Claude.ai (web/mobile) via Settings → Connectors → Add custom connector. You simply provide the server URL (mcp.tailwind.ai) and authorize access. There's no API key to paste.
API keys — used with CLI-based or config-file-based MCP setups (for example, manual mcp-remote bridges). Create a key under Settings → Integrations, then add it to your tool's MCP configuration.
Which method should I use?
If your AI assistant offers a connector with its own setup screen (including Claude Desktop and Claude.ai), use the OAuth method and just enter the server URL — you do not need to create or paste an API key. Only use an API key when your tool asks for one directly (typically CLI or config-file-based tools).
"Client registration pending approval"
This message means the OAuth app you're connecting hasn't been approved yet. Once approval completes, you'll be able to finish connecting.
I'm connected, but my AI assistant says it has no access to my Tailwind tools
This is a common first-time snag, especially with Claude.ai's web and mobile apps, and it almost always means the connector is authorized but hasn't been turned on for that specific conversation. Check these in order:
Turn the connector on in the chat itself. Adding Tailwind under Settings → Connectors only authorizes it — it does not automatically arm it in any given conversation. In Claude.ai, open the composer's tools menu (sometimes labeled "Search and tools") and toggle Tailwind on for that chat. This step is needed in every new conversation.
Check that individual tools are enabled. Under Settings → Connectors → Tailwind, each tool (Create Pinterest post, List Pinterest boards, etc.) has its own on/off switch. If all of them are off, your assistant will report it has no usable tools even though the connector shows Connected.
Confirm your plan supports custom connectors. On Claude.ai, custom connectors require a Pro, Max, Team, or Enterprise plan. On Team/Enterprise, an admin allow-list can also block a connector even after you've authorized it — check with your workspace admin if you're on one of those plans.
Restart your AI assistant. If you just connected Tailwind, fully closing and reopening the app (or starting a brand-new chat) can resolve tools not showing up.
If you've checked all of the above and tools still aren't available in the conversation, contact us at [email protected] and let us know which AI assistant you're using.
More resources
Developers can find additional reference material in our developer documentation at api-docs.tailwind.ai/mcp.