With macOS 26 Tahoe, Apple has introduced a faster and more intuitive way to change folder icons using emojis, symbols, or built-in color packs. Whether you want to make a folder pop with a bright emoji or give it a minimal, professional symbol, the process is now seamless and doesn’t require third-party apps.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to customize folder icons on your Mac running macOS 26 Tahoe, with step-by-step instructions. I’ll also cover how to do it on older versions, such as macOS Sequoia, share best practices, and troubleshoot common issues.
Symbols appear etched or embossed into the folder, creating a more refined and professional appearance.
In Finder, Control-click the folder you want to change and select Customize Folder from the menu.
In the customization window, youโll see a list of built-in icon packs.
Scroll through the list to pick one. Unlike emojis, thereโs no search bar, so take your time to browse.
Click a symbol to preview it in the folder. It will appear carved into the surface of the folder.
Click outside anywhere to apply the symbol. Your folder now has a tidy’ embossed icon.
Method 3: Apply Built-in Color Packs
Quick and efficient, color tags help visually distinguish folders without adding icons.
Control-click the folder in Finder.
In the context menu, youโll see colored dots (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, Gray).
Click a color to apply it instantly. The folder changes to that shade.
You can’t set custom colors here, but combining a color tag with an emoji or symbol gives even more visibility.
How to Reset Folder Icons on macOS 26 Tahoe
Need to revert a folder to its original look? Here’s how:
Control-click the folder and select Customize Folder.
Click the Clear button at the bottom left of the customization window.
The folder reverts to its standard look.
If you have assigned a color tag, click on it again to remove it.
How to Change Folder Icons on macOS Sequoia or Earlier
Older versions don’t offer built-in customization like Tahoe. But you can still change folder icons using Preview or third-party apps.
Method 1: Use Preview to Change Folder Colors
Launch the Finder app โ right-click on the folder.
Select Get Info.
Click the folder icon on the top left of the [folder name].
Press Cmd (โ) + C to copy the icon.
Launch Preview using Spotlight (Cmd (โ) + spacebar).
From the menu bar, select File โ pick New from Clipboard.
Click the Markup tool (the pencil icon).
Navigate to the Adjust Color (the settings icon).
Alter the color by adjusting the tint sliders until you find your desired shade.
Click the X icon to close the dialogue box.
Select the colored folder and copy it by pressing Cmd (โ) + C โ Click the X icon.
Choose Delete from the dialogue box.
Head back to the Info window from the start. If you’ve closed it, return to the folder โ right-click โ select Get Info.
Select the folder icon in the Info window and press Cmd (โ) + V.
Method 2: Use Third-party Folder Customization Apps
Third-party apps are a good choice if you’re considering altering your folder color on your Mac. I’ve curated a list of some of the most popular options below.
Folder Color: This software allows you to modify the color of individual folders and create custom folder icons.
Folder Colorizer: You can easily change the color by dragging and dropping a folder over the Folder Colorizer window.
Folder Icons: You can easily change the look of your folders by adding color, textures, and unique icons with this app.
Can You Use Custom Images or Icons on Mac Folders?
Yes, you can. But instead of pasting directly on the folder, you need to follow a detailed process. Check out our guide to changing app and folder icons on Mac for full instructions.
Best Practices for macOS Folder Customization
Keep things organized with these helpful tips:
Customize only key folders to make them stand out.
Group folders by theme, like travel (plane emoji, blue color) or finances (money symbol, green color).
Too many unique icons can confuse you. Stick to a few colors or emojis for clarity.
Ensure icons are clear in both Light and Dark modes, as Tahoeโs Liquid Glass look can affect appearance.
Use emojis or symbols for folders you access on other Apple devices, as custom images wonโt sync.
Can’t Change Folder Icon Colors on Mac? Try These Fixes
If youโve used the new Customize Folder option, clear it first to use the Get Info method for custom images.
Customize Folder not showing? Ensure youโre running macOS 26 Tahoe and have a stable internet connection for emoji loading.
Colors not applying? Only color-based tags work for folders. Non-color tags (e.g., Work) wonโt change the icon.
Icons look blurry? For custom images, use high-resolution PNGs for sharp results.
Find Folders Quickly with Colors and Emoji Icons
With the new folder customization tools in macOS 26 Tahoe, personalizing your Mac has never been easier. Whether you add playful emojis, sharp symbols, or bold colors, each folder becomes more than just storageโit becomes part of your workflow and expression.
So go aheadโrevamp your folders and give your Mac a visual makeover that works and wows.
Ava is a die-hard Apple aficionado and seasoned writer with a knack for breaking down complex tech concepts into easily digestible content. Having honed her writing and editing skills over 4 years at renowned media houses like TechBurner, Ava crafts informative and engaging articles including troubleshooting guides, product reviews, editorials at iGeeksBlog. When not typing, you can find her exploring the latest Apple releases or pondering the future of tech innovation.