How to Change Icons in Gnome 3: Step-by-Step Guide

This updated guide explains how to Change Icons in Gnome 3 through clear steps, practical examples, and important checks that help prevent common errors.

Note : Although this tutorial is for GNOME 3, the same trick can be done on other Linux file managers and desktop managers.

Start by activating your favorite file manager to find files or folders whose icons you don't like.

Change Icons in Gnome 3 example screenshot 1

Start by activating your favorite file manager

Right-click the folder and select Properties . Although it's unclear, the image in the upper left is not only a preview of the active icon, but also the point where you can change the icon, since it acts like a button. Click the image, and a file requester will appear.

Change Icons in Gnome 3 example screenshot 2

Right-click the folder and select Properties

Point the file dialog to the image you may need to use as an icon. It is worth noting that GNOME officially supports the XPM format, in addition to SVG and PNG files. However, Gnome still recommends that you avoid this format as it is only supported for backward compatibility reasons.

Change Icons in Gnome 3 example screenshot 3

GNOME still recommends that you avoid the XPM format

When you return to the main Properties window, the icon preview at the upper left of the property sheet will be updated, displaying the image you selected in the previous step.

Change Icons in Gnome 3 example screenshot 4

The icon preview at the upper left of the property sheet will be updated

Close the Properties dialog box and from now, your file or folder will display with a custom image as an icon.

Change Icons in Gnome 3 example screenshot 5

Your file or folder will display with a custom image as an icon

It's simple to change icons in Gnome 3, right?

FAQ

What is the easiest way to Change Icons in Gnome 3?

Start with the requirements in this guide, then follow each step in order. Check the result after every major change so problems are easier to identify.