How To Theme Windows XP

Most people have already customized Windows simply by changing the wallpaper. A lot of people don’t know that you can change the look of pretty much everything else.

You can get custom Windows themes, or visual styles, icons, and skins for most of your programs.

What You’ll Need

You can get a singular hack that allows Windows XP to use custom themes, or visual style files, or you can get Styler, an all-in-one, free app that let’s you take control of how Windows looks, from adding drop shadows to using custom toolbars.

Where to get Themes, Skins, and Icons

Find themes. There are thousands out there, but thankfully there are sites that help sort through them:

• PimpMyDesk.org - Updated frequently with visual styles and skins for dozens of apps.
• Customize.org - Archives of visual styles, skins, themes, icons, and backgrounds.
• DeviantArt.com - Obligatory reference because it is the mecca of all things creative.