Most file and application icons have a particular look. Save your work. Quit all applications. Restart your Mac. Press and hold the Command and Option keys during the restarting process.
Command is the key with the apple and cloverleaf on it.
Hold these keys until your Mac asks whether you want to rebuild the desktop. Once your desktop has been rebuilt, your icons should cease misbehaving. If you use the At Ease application on your Mac, turn it off before rebuilding your desktop file. Inc. How things get done. Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy .