*Note: I use
PowerPoint to create all of my files. These steps would be similar in Keynote,
however they might differ slightly.*
Step One:
Open a new
PowerPoint File and go to your page setup option under your File menu. Then set
your page size to 17” x 10.6”.
Step Two:
Start customizing by
adding either a digital paper or a solid color to your background.
Step Three:
Add frames, text,
clipart and shapes to completely customize your background. Let your creativity
and style flow! Try to stray away from putting important elements
right at the top and bottom of your slide. They will get cut off a bit. Plus,
think about where you have your Application Doc (left, bottom, right) and leave
room for it there.
Step Four:
Go to your
PowerPoint Preferences option under your PowerPoint menu. Set your graphics
size to 1280 x 798. This will give you crisp lines and clear fonts.
(Remember/write down your default setting so you can set it back when you are
done creating your desktop background).
Step Five:
Save your graphic as
a PPTX so you can edit it again in the future if you need to. Then save your
file as a PNG. This is what you will use to save onto your background.
Step Six:
Open your System Preferences,
select Desktop and Screen Saver. Then upload your new PNG file using the little
+ sign at the bottom of your screen. Finally change the setting to “Fit to
Screen”.
Step Seven:
Enjoy your new
background and customize your desktop icons for the full effect and complete
organization. Want to know how to customize your icons? Click here.
There you have it. A
great custom background that fits you, your needs and your personality! It
makes working on the computer just a little easier and a little bit more you!
Not sure you have
the time or patience to create your own desktop background? No worries... I got
you covered. You can download one of the four desktop organizers listed below for free!


Black and Brights ---> Download
Gray and Teal ---> Download
Gray and Orange ---> Download
Gold Decor ---> Download
*I use a
application called Memo Sticky Notes that I downloaded from the app store as a notes area on
my desktop. This allows me to type directly in it and it automatically saves
constantly. Plus, you can set it to automatically open when you start your
computer so it is always on your desktop. It is a quick place for you to type
something you need to remember and keep safe without the hassle of opening a
file/program. Added Benefits: It’s free. You can change the font/size so you
can still use your fun fonts!**
Pin the image below to save this tutorial for later!
Pin the image below to save this tutorial for later!

This was SUPER helpful! I had made a desktop organizer awhile ago and it wasn't as crisp and it certainly didn't fit all that well on my desktop! It looks perfect now! Thank you so much for the tutorial!
ReplyDeleteTami
Learning is a Hooot
Love your Mac Tips! Thanks girl!
ReplyDeleteRachel
A Tall Drink of Water
Help! I made this beautiful desktop organizer, thanks to your tutorial. Unfortunately, I totally did not write down my power point default settings before changing them. I know you told me to in the tutorial. I am blaming it on the excitement over what I had created. Do you happen to know the default settings for PP 2011 on a Mac? Thanks!
ReplyDelete~Laura
Luv My Kinders
Thank you for the tutorial and templates. I love the gray and purple one. It matches my new social media color scheme. I have the stock design set up on my new blog until my designer installs the cutesy one. Once I put the background into use, I will tag you on my social media. Thank you again.
ReplyDeleteIndrea
inspireteachreach.blogspot.com
This was great! I love your techie tips! Keep them coming!
ReplyDeleteVictoria Moller
Teach With a Smile
I just discovered your blog, and I am IN LOVE with everything you post!! Thank you for this super helpful, convenient tip.
ReplyDelete