How do I create my own theme and visual style?

YC69

YC69

So basically I really wonder how people make their own visual styles and themes for OS like Windows XP and others. I really want to create one, but I don't know how. Is there any help or advice?
 
While researching, I found this: https://www.codeproject.com/Articles/5107/Applying-Windows-XP-Visual-Styles-to-Applications
This is an instruction that I found (links below):
  1. Design Graphics:
    • Create or adapt graphical elements (buttons, scroll bars, menus) using design software (GIMP, Zbrush etc.)
  2. Package into .dll:
    • Use tools like ThemePatcher or Visual Style Creator to compile your graphics into a .dll file. This file replaces the default system visuals.
  3. Patch the System:
    • Apply the .dll file using a patcher like UXTheme Multi-Patcher. This modifies the OS’s theme engine to recognize and use your custom style.
  4. Test and Refine:
    • Apply the style and test it across applications. Adjust graphics or settings as needed to ensure compatibility and visual consistency.
ThemePatcher: https://mhoefs.eu/software_uxtheme.php?ref=syssel&lang=en (XP compatibility mentioned, read this guy's german forum posts, no translator)
XP Style Hacker: https://xp-style-hacker.en.lo4d.com/windows
Style XP: https://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhancements/Themes/Style-XP.shtml (most relevant)
Github project: https://github.com/Planet-Source-Co...st-maker-for-all-executables-updated__1-27928

Hope these help! If you need any help, please DM me so I can help you faster!

Have fun customizing your XP!
 
Martingonn said:
While researching, I found this: https://www.codeproject.com/Articles/5107/Applying-Windows-XP-Visual-Styles-to-Applications
This is an instruction that I found (links below):
  1. Design Graphics:
    • Create or adapt graphical elements (buttons, scroll bars, menus) using design software (GIMP, Zbrush etc.)
  2. Package into .dll:
    • Use tools like ThemePatcher or Visual Style Creator to compile your graphics into a .dll file. This file replaces the default system visuals.
  3. Patch the System:
    • Apply the .dll file using a patcher like UXTheme Multi-Patcher. This modifies the OS’s theme engine to recognize and use your custom style.
  4. Test and Refine:
    • Apply the style and test it across applications. Adjust graphics or settings as needed to ensure compatibility and visual consistency.
ThemePatcher: https://mhoefs.eu/software_uxtheme.php?ref=syssel&lang=en (XP compatibility mentioned, read this guy's german forum posts, no translator)
XP Style Hacker: https://xp-style-hacker.en.lo4d.com/windows
Style XP: https://www.softpedia.com/get/Desktop-Enhancements/Themes/Style-XP.shtml (most relevant)
Github project: https://github.com/Planet-Source-Co...st-maker-for-all-executables-updated__1-27928

Hope these help! If you need any help, please DM me so I can help you faster!

Have fun customizing your XP!
Click to expand...
Thanks! ;)
 
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