Theme access & the "pending" message
Short version: your pages are safe, and publishing turns on automatically. There's nothing you need to do.
Why ConvertCanvas needs theme-modification permission
ConvertCanvas is a compile-to-native page builder: when you publish, it writes real Online Store 2.0 theme files (JSON templates and Liquid sections) to a draft theme in your store. Writing theme files requires Shopify's theme-modification permission (write_themes), which Shopify grants to apps through an approval process.
What "theme access pending" means
If you see a "theme access pending" message in the app, it means ConvertCanvas's theme-modification permission is still being reviewed and approved by Shopify. While it's pending:
- The builder works fully. You can create pages, design with all 30 widgets, use templates, and save your work exactly as normal.
- Publishing is temporarily paused. The Publish button will let you know it's waiting on theme access rather than writing to your theme.
- Nothing is lost. Every page you create stays saved in your dashboard, ready to publish the moment access is approved.
What happens when access is approved
Approval is automatic on our side — there's nothing for you to click, reinstall, or reauthorize. As soon as Shopify grants the permission:
- The "theme access pending" message disappears.
- Publishing starts working immediately — for pages you already built and for new ones.
- Your first publish creates the ConvertCanvas Draft theme and syncs your compiled files to it. How publishing works
Common questions
Should I reinstall the app?
No. Reinstalling doesn't speed up the review, and your pages are tied to your store — they're safe either way.
Is my live theme at risk once access is granted?
No. Even with theme access, ConvertCanvas only writes its own managed oxa--prefixed files, and only to a draft theme — never to your live theme without your approval.
Can I keep working in the meantime?
Yes — that's exactly what we recommend. Build your pages now so they're ready to publish the moment access lands.
How long does approval take?
It's in Shopify's hands, so we can't promise a date. If you have questions about your specific store, email support@convertcanvas.com and we'll check the status for you.