Create and use custom folder icons

Folder icons work best when the design and file type match the system that shows them. A Mac can use a copied PNG in Finder, while Windows asks for an ICO file in its Change Icon dialog. Linux support varies by desktop and file manager. The guides below keep those paths separate so you can follow only the steps that fit your device.

Start here

Use the full tutorial if this is your first icon. It covers each editor control and the right export choice for your system.

Create a custom folder icon

Choose a folder, set its color, add a symbol or image, and download the finished file.

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Design for your system

Start with artwork that fits the system where you will use the icon. These guides explain the folder base, useful design limits, and export settings for each platform.

Mac folder icon maker

Design with the macOS folder shape and save a PNG for Finder.

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Windows folder icon maker

Create clear Windows folder art and export a real ICO file.

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Linux folder icon maker

Use KDE Breeze, GNOME Adwaita, or a base from your own icon theme.

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Apply the finished icon

The downloaded file is only the artwork. Your system still needs you to assign it to the folder. Follow the steps for Finder or Windows File Explorer.

Change a folder icon on Mac

Copy a PNG in Preview, paste it in Get Info, and restore the old icon later.

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Change a folder icon in Windows 11

Store the ICO in a safe place and assign it through folder Properties.

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Choose files and design rules

Use these references when you have source art already, need to pick a file type, or want a set of icons that remains easy to scan.

PNG, ICO, ICNS, and SVG

Learn which file types work on each system and which source file to keep.

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Turn PNG artwork into a Windows ICO

Place existing art on a Windows folder and export it in the file type Windows needs.

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Folder icon ideas that stay clear

Plan useful color, symbol, and text rules for work, study, photos, and code.

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Fix a problem

If the new image does not appear, check the file type, the selected item, the file location, system rights, and the icon cache in this order.

Custom folder icon not working

Find the cause on Mac, Windows, or Linux and restore a known-good state.

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What FolderIcon.App does and does not do

The editor creates the image file in your browser. It can recolor the base folder, add a built-in symbol, place your PNG or SVG, add a short text label, and export PNG or ICO. It does not change folders on your device by itself. That last step must happen in Finder, Windows File Explorer, or your Linux file manager.

Your source images stay in the browser while you work. There is no account or saved online project, so keep the final download and any source art you may want to edit again.