How do I access files?

[cwtsnj]

I apologize in advance for being so green. I have read tons of posts and have been working at building my store. Am I correct in assuming that I need to:
1. Change my template from the classic/default one provided?
2. If so, can I get one from a free templates webpage?
3. How do I access this "includes/templates/" file or the stylesheet I hear people talking about?
I guess getting these things accomplished will help me get started. Here's the link to my site if anyone has some suggestions, etc.
http://www.cjuniquegifts.com
Thank you!!

[Sketchy]

1) Yes, you would want to begin the transition into the Template Override System. Check out this and this article. Basically, read about the overrides and once you feel comfortable... then it's time to customize.

2) You sure can, right here in fact. There are some contributed templates and other goodies here. If you want previews, you'll have to download a template and then look in the image file folder for a screenshot or better yet, check the topic 'Contributed Templates' and there are some previews for some templates.

3) I'm not sure how you uploaded your store, via the file manager in the CP or by a separate FTP program. I, myself, like the FTP program where you can see the file directory tree and is quicker to navigate. Be wary, some FTPs are naughty and miss files.

I think all of the contributed templates have directions and I believe there are over twenty to choose from, so you may find one that suits your taste.

~There are also helpful 'stickies' at the top of different forum topics that you can pruse though as well upon your quest.

[cwtsnj]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I will try these steps and see what happens!

[Sketchy]

You're most welcome. You'll see that once you get to know your way around, you'll have a custom store in no time flat.

[DrByte]

I'd recommend FileZilla http://filezilla.sf.net as a good reliable FTP program

[cwtsnj]

Ok, I downloaded the sophy blue template and now see folders for the stylesheet and images, etc. How do I exchange my old template for this new one? Also, I am having trouble downloading the ftp (filezilla) manager. It's asking me to read the notes, which I have, but it gives me no new button for downloading. Can you tell me why this is or recommend a different one? Thanks again for your help.

[Sketchy]

Okay, you're ready to switch on the template...

Admin-Tools;

`Template Selection `Edit and use the dropdown to select your new template. Hit 'Update' and don't forget to reset the sideboxes for that new template;

Admin-Tools;

`Layout Boxes Controller;

-Scroll to the bottom and hit 'Reset' You can adjust or switch off sideboxes and stuff you don't need. Take your time and experiment.

As for FTPs, I use SmartFTP... It's okay, seems to work good.

[cwtsnj]

I followed the stpes you gave me to turn on my new template. It is now showing on my site, but it is not in the color scheme I was expecting. Can this be fixed or should I just leave it as is for now? Also, can you tell me the difference between a text editor and the ftp thing? Do I need both?

[Sketchy]

I can't remember how much of that template is based upon images. Either way, it's not so bad to adjust for different colors. I never tried that one. Come to think of it, you could probably contact the designer in the support thread in 'Contributed Templates'.

An FTP is just a file transfer program, whereas a text editor is something like Windows Note/Word pad. That's all I pretty much use.

[cwtsnj]

I can't thank you enough. I have made some progress with my page, minor things, but progress no less. I've also gotten more comfortable using the control panel. I'd like to begin adding photos and products to my page, with the option right there to place the item in the shopping cart. However, I don't know if I even have a shopping cart on my site. Do you have any pointers in this area?