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    How to make windows xp themes

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by elijahRW, Feb 28, 2009.

  1. elijahRW

    elijahRW Notebook Deity

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    Is there a program or something that you use to make skins :confused:
    I am interested in learning how it's done.

    TIA
     
    elijahRW, Feb 28, 2009
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  2. psygn

    psygn Notebook Evangelist

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    I don't know about Windows XP but for Vista there are three ways.

    1. Open up the .msstyles file in a resource hacking program (ResHacker, Restorator, etc) and replace the image files (on Vista it is one big image with all the GUI elements). I don't know if it's finicky with XP but you will have to use the correct bit image file.

    2. Use a program that can slice all the GUI elements into seperate images and sew them back together when done. On Vista there is a free program that is in Alpha stage called Vistyler, and a commercial one I use called Vista Style Builder. The latter has its own alpha conversion so you won't have to play around with it.

    3. Use one of the many available programs that uses its own proprietary format to create and apply skins. WindowsBlinds is a popular one that would be the friendliest, but it is a commercial product and if you plan on releasing a visual style your audience will have to run that program to use your theme.
     
    psygn, Feb 28, 2009
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