# Deploying a Theme

> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://plugins.jetbrains.com/docs/intellij/llms.txt).

Before a custom theme plugin can be [uploaded to JetBrains Marketplace](publishing-plugin.html#uploading-a-plugin-to-jetbrains-marketplace) and used by users, it should be packaged and verified in the actual IDE.

The deployment process prepares the plugin artifact that can be installed in IDE.

Procedure: Deploying Theme Plugin

1. Build the theme by invoking `Build | Build Project` or `Build | Build Module $MODULE_NAME$`.

2. Create the deployment artifact by invoking `Build | Prepare Plugin Module $MODULE_NAME$ for Deployment`.

The resulting theme JAR file will be created in the project or module directory.

In the case of developing a regular plugin, and it specifies additional dependencies, a ZIP archive is created, including all the plugin libraries.

3. [Install](https://www.jetbrains.com/help/idea/managing-plugins.html#installing-plugins-from-disk) the newly created JAR or ZIP file from disk.

4. Click the Apply button.

5. Select the theme in `Settings | Appearance & Behavior | Appearance` and apply the changes.