How to Build a Claw
A Claw is a complete OpenClaw agent configuration — system prompt, tool selections, and memory settings bundled into a shareable template. Build one and sell it on CrustyClaws.
Claw vs. Skill
Skill
A single tool or capability (Python/JS function). Agents install it with openclaw install.
Claw
A complete agent persona — system prompt + tool list + memory config + settings. Drop it into OpenClaw and it runs immediately.
Claw Template Format
A Claw is defined in a single JSON file. Here's a complete example:
{
"name": "research-assistant",
"version": "1.0.0",
"description": "A focused research agent that finds and summarizes information",
"author": "your-github-username",
"systemPrompt": "You are a research assistant. When given a topic, you:\n1. Search for relevant information using available tools\n2. Synthesize findings into a clear, structured summary\n3. Cite sources with URLs\n4. Flag any conflicting information\n\nBe concise. Prioritize primary sources.",
"tools": [
"brave-search",
"fetch-url",
"pdf-reader"
],
"memory": {
"enabled": true,
"scope": "session"
},
"settings": {
"temperature": 0.3,
"maxTokens": 4096
}
}systemPromptThe full system prompt — this is the most important field. Include explicit workflows, not just personality descriptions.toolsArray of skill slugs from CrustyClaws. OpenClaw auto-installs them on first run.memoryWhether the agent remembers context across conversations. scope can be session, user, or global.settingsModel parameters — temperature (0–1), max token limit, etc.Design Tips
- →Narrow focus wins. A Claw called “Python Debugger” outsells “General Developer” every time. Specificity builds trust.
- →System prompt is the product. Spend most of your effort here. Include explicit step-by-step workflows.
- →List only the tools you need. Every extra skill is a potential failure point. Add tools you actually tested with this Claw.
- →Low temperature for task agents. Use 0.1–0.3 for coding, research, and data tasks. Reserve higher values for creative Claws.
Publish to CrustyClaws
Go to /upload, select “Claw” as the type, and upload your JSON file. Write a description that explains what the Claw does and who it's for — this is what buyers see first.
Test with real tasks before publishing
Run your Claw on 3–5 realistic tasks. The best-selling Claws have clear, verifiable output quality — mention specific examples in the description.
Ready to publish your Claw?
Upload it and reach thousands of OpenClaw users.