Last updated: March 1, 2026

Answers to the questions we hear most often. If something isn't covered here, feel free to reach out to any staff member — we're happy to help.

01 About Skinbase

What is Skinbase?: Skinbase is a community gallery for desktop customisation — skins, themes, wallpapers, icons, and more. Members upload their own creations, collect favourites, leave feedback, and discuss all things design in the forums. We've been online since 2001 and still going strong.
Is Skinbase free to use?: Yes, completely. Browsing and downloading are free without an account. Registering (also free) unlocks uploading, commenting, favourites, collections, and messaging.
Who runs Skinbase?: Skinbase is maintained by a small volunteer staff team. Staff moderate uploads, help members, and keep the lights on. There is no corporate ownership — this is a community project.
How can I support Skinbase?: The best support is participation — upload your work, leave constructive comments, report problems, and invite other creators. You can also help by flagging rule-breaking content so staff can review it quickly.

02 Uploading & Submissions

What file types are accepted?: Skins and resources are generally uploaded as .zip archives. Preview images are accepted as JPG, PNG, or WebP. Wallpapers may be uploaded directly as image files. Check the upload form for the exact size and type limits per category.
Is there a file size limit?: Yes. The current limit is displayed on the upload page. If your file exceeds the limit, try removing any unnecessary assets from the archive before re-uploading.
Why was my upload removed?: Uploads are removed when they break the Rules & Guidelines — most commonly for containing photographs you don't own (photoskins), missing preview images, or violating copyright. You will usually receive a message explaining the reason. If you believe a removal was in error, contact a staff member.
Can I upload work-in-progress skins?: You may share works-in-progress in the forums for feedback. The main gallery is intended for finished, download-ready submissions only.

03 Copyright & Photoskins

What is a photoskin?: A photoskin is a skin that uses photographic images — typically sourced from the internet — as its primary visual element. Because those photos belong to the photographer (or their publisher), using them without permission is copyright infringement.
Can I upload photoskins?: No. Photoskins are not allowed on Skinbase. All artwork in a skin must be created by you, or you must include written proof of permission from the original artist inside the zip file. Stock images with a licence that explicitly permits use in redistributed works are allowed — include a copy of that licence in the zip.
Can I base my skin on someone else's artwork?: Only with documented permission. Include the permission statement (email, forum post, etc.) inside your zip file and note it in your upload description. Staff may still remove the work if we cannot verify the permission.
Someone uploaded my artwork without permission. What do I do?: Use the Report button on the artwork's page, or contact a staff member directly. Provide a link to the infringing upload and evidence that you are the copyright holder. We take copyright complaints seriously and act promptly.

04 Skinning Help

How do I make a skin?: Every application is different, but skins generally consist of a folder of images and small text/config files. A good starting point is to unpack an existing skin (many Winamp skins are simply renamed .zip files), study the structure, then replace the images with your own artwork. Check the application's official documentation for its exact format.
How do I apply a Windows theme?: To change the visual style of Windows you typically need a third-party tool such as WindowBlinds, SecureUxTheme, or a patched uxtheme.dll. Install your chosen tool, download a compatible theme from Skinbase, then follow the tool's instructions to apply it.
Where can I get help with a specific application?: The forums are the best place — there are dedicated sections for popular skinnable applications. You can also check the comments on popular skins for tips from other members.
What image editing software do skinners use?: The community uses a wide range of tools. Popular choices include Adobe Photoshop, GIMP (free), Affinity Designer, Figma, and Krita (free). The best tool is the one you're comfortable with.

05 Account & Profile

How do I set a profile picture?: Go to Settings → Avatar, choose an image from your device, and save. Your avatar appears on your profile page and next to all your comments.
Can I change my username?: Username changes are handled by staff. Send a message to a staff member with your requested new name. We reserve the right to decline requests that are inappropriate or conflict with an existing account.
How do I delete my account?: Account deletion requests must be sent to staff. Please be aware that your publicly submitted artwork may remain in the gallery under your username unless you also request removal of specific uploads. See our Privacy Policy for details on data retention.
I forgot my password. How do I reset it?: Use the Forgot password? link on the login page. An email with a reset link will be sent to the address on your account. If you no longer have access to that email, contact a staff member for assistance.

06 Community & Forums

Do I need an account to use the forums?: Guests can read most forum threads without an account. Posting, replying, and creating new topics require a registered account.
Can I promote my own work in the forums?: Yes — there are dedicated showcase and feedback sections. Limit self-promotion to those areas and avoid spamming multiple threads with the same content.
How do I report a bad comment or forum post?: Every comment and post has a Report link. Use it to flag content that breaks the rules; staff will review it promptly. For urgent issues, message a staff member directly.
What are the messaging rules?: Private messaging is for genuine one-to-one communication. Do not use it to harass, solicit, or send unsolicited promotional material. Violations can result in messaging being disabled on your account.

07 Policies & Conduct

Are there many rules to follow?: We keep the rules straightforward: respect everyone, only upload work you own or have permission to share, and keep it drama-free. The full list is in our Rules & Guidelines.
What happens if I break the rules?: Depending on severity, staff may issue a warning, remove the offending content, temporarily restrict your account, or permanently ban you. Serious offences (harassment, illegal content) result in an immediate permanent ban with no prior warning.
How do I appeal a ban or removed upload?: Contact a senior staff member and explain the situation calmly. Provide any supporting evidence. Staff decisions can be reversed when new information comes to light, but appeals submitted aggressively or repeatedly will not be reconsidered.
I still can't find what I need. What now?: Send a private message to any staff member or post in the Help section of the forums. Someone from the community will usually respond quickly.

This FAQ is reviewed periodically. For legal matters such as copyright, data, or account deletion, please refer to our Privacy Policy and Rules & Guidelines, or contact the staff team directly.