> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://retryy.gitbook.io/tf2/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://retryy.gitbook.io/tf2/wiki/skintypes/ubad.md).

# yuh

## The Context

### **IF YOU DONT READ THIS, I'll kill BT a third time.**

You're here because you want to use custom skins and have no idea what you're talking about. We don't want to waste our time and your time. 

**Pay attention.** **You're going to have to tell us exactly which method you're attempting** to install. Use this wiki page to compare and find out which method you're using.

### There is 3 types of custom skinning methods.

The hyperlinks link to how to install each type.

* [**DDS (rpak method)**](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1002068248151470120/1019786338804973661/propermodinstallation.gif)

  **Installed just like Northstar mods.** This is the best overall method. 
* [**DDS (skintool method)**](https://retryy.gitbook.io/tf2/Guide/Install/dds)

  **Installed with skintools.** This is bad. Stop using this. 
* [**VTF (vpk method)**](https://retryy.gitbook.io/tf2/Guide/Install/vtf-manual-modding)

  **Installed manually or as mod.** These are the animated and moving skins. 

## The Comparison

Time to compare these common traits, so you can identify the type of skin you're trying to use.

### DDS (rpak method)

You'll usually get these from the #skin-collection Discord channel or on [Thunderstore](https://northstar.thunderstore.io/).

This is the best overall method, most supported, recommended, and installed just like any other Northstar mod. 

{% hint style="info" %}
The tool used to make these goes by RePak, but you never actually use it.
{% endhint %}

### Checking for DDS (rpak method)

#### Check the mod advertisement.

A good modder will have context on their mod download/advertisement. Check for "installed as a mod", "mod", "thunderstore mod". 

<figure><img src="/files/LsbSBYmEyjm8BkWCusjQ" alt=""><figcaption><p>Custom skin with proper installation label. </p></figcaption></figure>

#### **Installed like any other Northstar mod.**&#x20;

They should appear like the common Northstar mod.&#x20;

* author.modSkinName
  * paks, mods, or vpk folder inside
  * mod.json

Example:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/wrOFmPtdmPAkwjb64Mr7" alt=""><figcaption><p>Average rpak skin Northstar mod.</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Should appear in 'mods' list inside Northstar.

They should appear like the common Northstar mod.&#x20;

* author.modSkinName

<figure><img src="/files/qFoIMCLPEnOn0bix2AH7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### If you still need more clarification.

* Reread the wiki page (It took me 1 hour to create and organize this one section).&#x20;
* Then think about it for 30 seconds.
* Then ask us clarifying questions.

### DDS (skintool method)

**Installed with a "skintool".**

### Checking for DDS (skintool method)

#### SkinTool

The "skintool"s we are talking about are

* Strykus's Fork skintool: <https://github.com/Strykus/Titanfall2-SkinTool>
* zxcPandoras skintool: <https://github.com/zxcPandora/Titanfall2-SkinTool>

Images of skintools UI (there is no visual difference between the two)

![](/files/WJykpjLR5dUQNJuweduM)

#### Skin

You usually download a zip from #skin-collection in Discord

and they have 4096, 2048, 1024, 512 folders inside.&#x20;

This is the worst skin method.&#x20;

Use[ Advocate ](https://retryy.gitbook.io/tf2/Wiki/Tools/skin-tools#advocate-skintool-to-rpak-mod-converter)to convert 'DDS (skintool method)' to 'DDS (rpak method)'. Will improve quality. (Recommended)&#x20;

If you wish to use the skintool regardless you are free to do so. (Not recommended)&#x20;

### VTF (vpk method)

**Installed manually with a hex editor and vpks.**

These should just be loose VTF, VMT and/or VPK files, most importantly there wouldnt be a mod.json file. In order to install one please follow the [NoSkill guide](https://noskill.gitbook.io/titanfall2/Modding/CustomSkins/Install/VTF).&#x20;

OR

You might just be using a skin that using vtfs to make it cooler. These just install like a normal Northstar mod. They should basically be 'DDS (rpak method)' mixed with 'VTF (vpk method)'.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/sEylWvGmXwrOzp6eX45e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

but with additional folders. Just install them any other mod.


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