Hopefully there will be many more versions to come. But first, let me introduce myself. They call me 'BusJohnny.' but N. Jonas Englund is more correct. I am a professional artist and graphic designer, with a passion for computing. Maybe it is my profession that makes me grow tired of the same old desktop, but I have found a cure: ResEdit! ResEdit 2.1.1 can be downloaded from the 'Macintosh Developers RT Sofware Library' (m480;3). Just download file# 2266. I could go on to speak about computers being Mankind's greatest gift to the creative mind, but most of you probably already know that. So, let us get to the point: Pattern Mania!
There are a dozen desktop patterns in this shipment; given ID# 1-12. These numbers will have to be changed when installing the patterns, but more about that later. All the patterns included are designed for use with, at least, 8-bit color boards (256 color mode), but most patterns will work just dandy in 4-bit, and some even in 1-bit. Here follows a brief description of the designed patterns, followed by detailed
installation instructions for those who feel they need it.
1. BathroomTiles: Dark blue designer tiles, for those of us who like to shower with our Macs (not recommended by Apple).
2. BrickWall: Feel like a Standup Comedian, or Comedienne; this is for you. Try out your stuff at home, before taking it to your local 'Improv.'
7. FactorySiding: For white-collar workers who wish they where blue-collar workers (there must be someone). Get that industrial feeling today. Also for Heavy Metallists.
8. TableCloth: That's Italian! Have your lunch on this one.
9. EscherSwans: I would assume there are some M. C. Escher fans in Computerland. He would definitely have loved the Macintosh. This is one of his tile designs, spruced up.
10. TidyDesert: I love the desert, but it can be uncomfortable. Use this substitute and avoid a heatstroke and sand in your shoes.
11. AirplaneWing: We have all nervously watched out the window to check the flaps and rivets, waiting for take-off. Again, also for Heavy Metallists.
12. VelvetCurtain: Something dark and sensual to rest your tired mind upon.
These instructions are valid for System 7.0 and above:
Open the 'System Folder,' press 'Option' and click-drag 'System' out and put it directly on the desktop (do not rename it). This will produce a copy of the 'System' that you can safely operate on. But do not leave it on the desktop when you shut down, your machine does not like to find two systems in action when booting up (unless one is in the trash).
Launch ResEdit and open the file 'PatternMania 1,' a 'ppat'(pixel pattern) resource. Open the 'ppat' resource by double-clicking on it. You will find the twelve pattern icons numbered 1-12. Double-click to view them in the editing window; where you can also change the design if you want to. 'ppat' will then appear in the menu bar; choose 'Try Pattern' to for a preview.
Once you have selected the pattern of your choice, close the editing window and select one of the twelve designs. Selected icons are surrounded by a black frame, with the text in highlight. Press 'Command' C to copy (or choose 'Copy' from the menu). Next, press 'Command' O (or 'Open' from the menu). In the dialog box: choose the copy of 'System' on the desktop. All resources in the system become visible (quite a few); find 'ppat' and double-click.
The default gray desktop pattern icon shows up; its ID#16 (IMPORTANT!); press 'Command' V to paste the new pattern into the open window. Select the old pattern #16 and press 'Command' X, to remove it (you can also keep it, but give it a different ID#). Now you have to change ID# on the new stuff; select it and press 'Command' I (Get Resource Info). Type the number 16 and press 'Command' S, to save the file.
Left to do is to remove the original 'System' in the 'System Folder' and place it in the trash, but do not empty yet. To play it safe, you might also want to back up the 'System' file on a floppy. Now, put your edited version of 'System' in the 'System Folder' and restart.
There you have it! It is actually quite simple if you just follow the directions. However, since there is a 'Murphy's Law,' always have a startup floppy handy, just in case. Use it to be able to remove the edited 'System,' if the project fails, and replace it with the original; it should still be unharmed in the trash. Either try again, or ask Mom for some money to get a ResEdit manual. Good luck!
