What I Learned Building Stewie-js with Claude Code

Description and use

The author leveraged Claude Code to rapidly build Stewie-js, a lightweight TypeScript UI framework that avoids common pitfalls of React and other libraries, featuring fine‑grained reactivity, no virtual DOM, and an optional compiler.

Problem

Building a new UI framework from scratch while avoiding common pitfalls of existing frameworks and leveraging AI for rapid development.

Outcome

Using Claude Code accelerated the creation of Stewie-js, enabling rapid prototyping, clear architecture decisions, and a framework that meets the author’s performance and simplicity goals.

Workflow

• 1. Created skeleton repo with package.json and .gitignore.
• 2. Initiated Claude CLI and had a detailed conversation defining pros/cons of existing frameworks.
• 3. Brain‑dumped requirements and core pillars (no virtual DOM, minimal API, optional compiler).
• 4. Claude asked clarifying questions; author provided detailed answers.
• 5. Established decision‑making pillars to guide all future code additions.
• 6. Claude generated initial code, tests, and documentation.
• 7. Iterated with Claude on architectural decisions and refinements.
• 8. Achieved early shipping of features with robust test coverage.

Evidence

I created a skeleton repository with a package.json and .gitignore and fired up Claude CLI.

Source

Claude was able to construct a clear vision for the ideal capabilities of this new framework.

Source

Everything felt awesome and I was riding the wave, glued to my terminal.

Source