Hi to All,

Is it possible to have your file folders in different colors with Windows 98 SE. I looked at Customization of Folders but didn't see anything to that effect. I know you can customize the background and text when you open the folder;however, I am interested in having my file folders classified by color if that is possible.

Thanks for your help

It can be done but not by simply changing some settings.

First, you need to get the icons. Unless you have an icon creation program, you can use 32pixel square bmp files. You would create them and place them in a safe place, for example
C:\FolderIcons\red.bmp
C:\FolderIcons\blue.bmp
etc.

Create and name your new folder. Inside the folder, create a new text file. Open the text file and type two lines.

[.ShellClassInfo]
IconFile="C:\FolderIcons\red.bmp"

Obviously, you would use the correct path for the icon and folder you actually created. Save the changed text file, close it and rename it "desktop.ini". Change the file attribute of desktop.ini to "hidden". Change the attributes of the folder itself to "system". Refresh your desktop or reboot.

I have a script that automates the process for you but I can't find where I put my colored folder icons. If I have time later, I'll try to make some new ones.

I happen to have an utility that will let you skip the coding of desktop.ini file. It's very good and easy to use. You do need the icon though but color icons are a good idea and I never thought of it myself so I might add them in the program some time. Get it here:

http://www.ryansoftware.esmartbuyer.com/
it's called Sytem Directory Maker 3.11

Or you can use the direct link to the file:

http://www.ryansoftware.esmartbuyer.com/software/sysdir.exe.htm

Hope you enjoy this software. I use it allot myself. The only thing I noticed though is that if you try to view a folder in dos, with this setting on, it will not show up. It's because it needs to set the system attribute so that the icon shows. I thought I lost all my stuff once!



Ryan

I came across a tip in Woody's Windows Watch that I have found that I really like. It was called Little Green Folders. What the tip does is to replace the normal Windows open folder icon with an open green folder. This makes it very easy to see what folder you are in. The tip came with an open green folder icon and instructions on how to replace the system open folder by using a program called My Properties.

Ranger Bob -- AKA Bobby

I use a nifty little program from PC Magazine aptly named, "Folders". It is freely available, here:

http://www.pcmag.com/article/0,2997,a%253D10044,00.asp

It will add a right-click context menu entry to "Change Icon" when any folder is selected. Browse to any icon you choose and OK out. Icon sets can be downloaded from dozens of sites...including, Scotterpops who has a cool little set of them.