Windows XP Skinning software - WindowsBlinds vs uxtheme.dll hacking

Windowblinds is, undoubtedly, more powerful than a simple uxtheme.dll hack. It really depends on what you prefer and whether you're willing to trade CPU cycles and memory for more customisability. I found that uxtheme.dll worked just as well as Windowblinds; there are only very few extras that can be done in Windowblinds that can't be done with a custom uxtheme.dll. (Transparency, for example.)

Programs like Y'z Toolbar and Y'z Shadow should not adversely affect system resources. I would recommend a custom uxtheme.dll with the extra customisation programs, but it's up to you whether you're willing to give up Windowblind's extra features. You may find that Windowblinds will integrate a theme better with Y'z Toolbar, Shadow, and other programs; I don't use any of those programs so I wouldn't know myself.

As for icons, I found that Stardock's IconPackager worked really well and did not hinder start-up times or eat RAM for breakfast. After my recent format I've not re-installed it yet, so I've been looking for another way to custom icons but alas, IconPackager seems the most efficient way.

Jam it back in, in the dark.