How to Create Windows XP Themes

Windows XP features an already sleek interface, with a lot of different features that are just begging to be customized. Users of Windows XP can tailor the appearance of Windows XP, without having to modify the operating system or even hack the applications running in the background. With a few clicks, you can create your own great-looking themes for free.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Windows XP
• Theme manager program (optional)

Create Windows XP Themes in Windows

1. Open and start Windows XP. There is no need to enter safe mode to create themes.
2. Click on the Start menu and select the "Control Panel" menu option.
3. Click on the "Appearance" link in the Control Panel window (if you are viewing the control panel in the default Windows XP view). If you would like to switch to the classic Windows Control Panel view, click the "Switch to Classic View" link.
4. Click the "Display" icon in the Control Panel. From here you will be able to control nearly every aspect of your Windows XP themes.
5. Click on the "Appearance" tab along the menu bar.
6. Experiment with different settings. Change fonts, colors and sizes. Tweak the way the menu buttons behave.
7. Click the "Desktop" tab to choose from the collection of wallpapers you have stored on your hard drive. You can choose to stretch, center or tile the wallpaper to make it appear the way you desire.
8. Change your screensaver to something that fits with the themes you are creating. Just choose from the list provided and change its parameters to see how it would look in different states.
9. Click back to the "Themes" tab, and then click "Save As..." in order to preserve the themes you create.
10. Delete a theme that you no longer wish to have by selecting the theme from the drop-down menu in the "Themes" tab and clicking "Delete." You will be asked to confirm your selection, at which point you may press "Yes" or "No" to complete the operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Expand your power to create Windows XP themes by downloading a third-party theme manager. Several terrific programs are available for creating your own themes. Alternatively, you may use themes that others have created.
• Be sure to back up themes as you create them. Making even minor changes to a theme can change many other settings inadvertently.

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