How to Create Icons With Freeware
The icons on your desktop give you quick access to files, folders and programs that are stored on your computer. Most icons are 48 pixels wide by 48 pixels in height, but may come in other sizes depending on where they are used in the operating system. Icon for use on Windows computers have the file extension ICO, while Macintosh icons have the file extension ICNS. The easiest way to create a custom icon is to download icon creation software, which can be found for free online.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Download the "IcoFX" icon-creation program by clicking on the link located in the Resources section. Locate and double-click the download file to launch the installation program.
-
2
Click the "Next" button and read the installment agreement. Select the radio button next to "I accept the agreement" and click the "Next" button. Click the "Next" button to confirm the installation location. Click "Next" to confirm start menu shortcut creation. Choose if you want to create a desktop or quick launch icon and click "Next." Click the "Install" button.
-
-
3
Ensure the box next to "Launch IcoFX" is checked and click the "Finish" button. The program will open automatically.
-
4
Click "Close" to dismiss the Tip of the Day dialog box. Click "File" at the top of the program window and choose "New." Select a the color range for the icon file. Choose a size for the icon from the available options or click the radio button next to "Custom" to type in a custom size. Click the "OK" button.
-
5
Draw your icon on the canvas area in the center window. Use the Tools panel to change the brush style, add text, erase pixels, crop the image, draw straight lines, add gradients or change object opacity. Choose colors to use in conjunction with tools from the colors panel. You can also open existing icon files by locating and double-clicking them in the Explorer pane on the left side of the program window.
-
6
Save the image by clicking the "File" menu at the top of the program window and choosing "Save." Select a save location and click the "Save" button. The image will save as an ICO files and can be used as an icon.
-
1
