- Icons are always the same width as they are height in pixel dimensions. As a reference, Windows XP uses four sizes of icons: 48 x 48, 32 x 32, 24 x 24 and 16 x 16. Icons in the Start Menu are 24 x 24 pixels wide. Standard sizes for toolbars are 16 x 16 or 24 x 24.
- Start with any picture of your choosing and change the image size to the appropriate pixel size. View the picture at 100% view to be sure that it will look OK once you have made it an icon for you computer. Save the picture in PNG or JPG format. This is usually accomplished through the Save As option in most software.
- To change the file to an icon formatted file, simply rename the file as a .ico file. For example: if the file name is "Icon.png" then use the "Rename" function by right clicking the filename and name the file "Icon.ico". This will change the format to an icon format and the file can be used in place of any other icon picture.
- To apply the icon to an individual folder, right-click on that folder and select "Properties" from the drop-down list. Select "Change Icon" and then browse through and select the ico file that you just made. Select OK and the icon will be changed.
- Software such as MicroAngelo Suite is designed to easily create and apply icons to your computer. This software can also help you create cursors. Icons can also be downloaded from the Internet; several free sites offer extensive selections (see Resources) and these icons can be used to accent your desktop themes.
- Favicons help identify websites in a favorites folder. If you look to the top left of the address bar, an icon identifies many websites. These icons can be customized by the website owner. Using a logo or a symbol that represents the website is a great way to help establish brand identity on the web. When the site is added to a bookmark or favorites menu, the icon will appear next to it. Several online icon makers (see Resources) can help you make making favicon.ico files.
