Blogger makes it straightforward to import a theme into your account. Let’s learn how to go about importing your own.
Step 1: Find a Template You Like!
Of course, before you install a theme, you need to find one. We have a wide range of templates for you to choose from. Pick a theme that suits you and your audience and that you will be happy with for years to come.
While you can change your theme again fairly easily, choosing one you can keep gives return visitors a more reliable experience. Ask your audience for suggestions and feedback, too.
If you have a theme you’d like but can’t find here, submit a template request. Better yet, if you’re a developer or web designer, submit your themes to us.
Step 2: Download it
Once you find a theme, download the files. Click the download button and get busy with it.
Step 3: Unzip it
Once the download is on your computer, uncompress the file. This lets you see all the files, images, and notes, including the XML file you will upload.
Step 4: Log in to your Blogger account
Once the theme is in a folder on your computer, log in to your free Blogger account. You will normally use your Google account.
Step 5: Back up your current theme
Before changing anything, back up what you currently have. Navigate to the theme section in Blogger, open the backup/restore screen, and choose the option to download your full template.
Step 6: Keep the backup in a safe place
Save the current theme somewhere you can find later. On a shared computer, a Dropbox account lets you access it from another machine. You could also use a USB drive or email it to yourself.
Step 7: Locate and import your new theme
Now that your current website theme is backed up, upload the new Blogger theme. On the same screen, choose the import option, browse to the unzipped folder, and select its XML file.
Step 8: Configure the widgets and layout
Once the import succeeds, configure the layout and widgets to suit your blog.
Step 9: Get back to blogging!
Don’t get too hung up on design. Focus on making quality content, growing your business, and adding value to your community.