How to Change Your Codex Theme

A step-by-step guide to creating and applying a custom Codex Desktop theme using CodexSkin.download.

Prerequisites

  • Codex Desktop installed on your computer
  • A modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
  • For Dream Skins: Node.js 22+ (for the injection engine)

Step 1: Create Your Theme

Visit CodexSkin.download and use the Studio to create your custom theme. You have three starting options:

  • Preset: Choose from our curated collection of themes and remix them
  • My Image: Upload your own background image and the Studio will analyze its colors
  • Colors Only: Start from scratch with a blank canvas and pick your own colors

Use the composition controls to adjust the background position, dim, blur, and panel opacity. The live preview shows exactly how your theme will look in Codex Desktop.

Step 2: Validate and Export

Before exporting, check the validation panel. The Studio automatically calculates contrast ratios:

  • Text contrast: Should be at least 4.5:1 for readability
  • Control contrast: Should be at least 3:1 for UI elements

Choose your export mode:

  • Native Theme: A JSON configuration that Codex imports through Settings. Simplest option.
  • Dream Skin: A data package with background image, theme settings, and installation guide. For advanced customization.

Step 3: Apply to Codex Desktop

For Native Themes

  1. Open Codex Desktop
  2. Go to Settings > Appearance
  3. Click Import Theme
  4. Paste the theme JSON you copied from CodexSkin.download
  5. Click Apply

For Dream Skins

  1. Extract the downloaded .dreamskin package
  2. Read the included README for platform-specific instructions
  3. Run the installation script for your operating system
  4. Verify the skin was applied correctly using the verification checklist

Troubleshooting

  • Theme not applying: Make sure you are running the latest version of Codex Desktop
  • Colors look wrong: Check that your monitor color profile is set correctly
  • Want to go back: See our restore guide to return to the default appearance

FAQ

Can I change my theme without restarting Codex?

Native Themes can be applied without restarting. Dream Skins require a restart because they modify the application shell.

Will changing my theme affect my conversations?

No. Themes only change the visual appearance. Your conversations, projects, and settings are not affected.

Can I share my custom theme with others?

Yes. Native Themes can be shared as JSON strings. Dream Skins can be shared as data packages, but make sure you have the right to use any images included.

Create your themeRestore defaults