> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.hedwik.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Install Theme

> Thank you for choosing **Skalven**. Follow the steps below to install your theme and configure the custom routing for a seamless experience.

<Danger>
  The theme will not function correctly unless the provided **routes.yaml** file is uploaded and active. Please upload `routes.yaml` via **Settings → Labs → Routes** after installing the theme. Without it, pages may appear blank or not work as expected.
</Danger>

### 1. Extract the Theme Package

Upon downloading your purchase, you will receive a main archive named **`skalven-v1.xx.zip`**. Please unzip this file first.

Inside, you will find documentation, assets, and the theme file itself:

* 📂 License & documentation files
* 📂 Theme assets folder
* 📦 **`skalven.zip`** ***(This is your installable theme file)***

<Warning>
  Ghost strictly accepts the inner theme package only. Please ensure you upload `skalven.zip` and not the main download folder.
</Warning>

***

### 2. Upload to Ghost Admin

Log in to your Ghost administrative dashboard (e.g., `yourdomain.com/ghost`).

1. Navigate to **Settings** → **Theme**.
2. Click **Change Theme** → **Upload Theme**.
3. Select or drag and drop the **`skalven.zip`** file.
4. Once uploaded, click **Activate** to make **Skalven** live.

***

### 3. Configure Custom Routing

To unlock Skalven's optimized page structure and layout features, you must apply the custom routing configuration.

1. Navigate to **Settings** → **Labs**.
2. Locate the **Routes** section and click **Upload routes file**.
3. Select the **`routes.yaml`** file found inside your main unzipped folder.

> **Note:** After uploading, we recommend refreshing your homepage to ensure the new redirect structure propagates correctly.

***

### 4. Ready for Launch 🚀

**Installation is complete.** Your Skalven theme is active and fully configured. You may now proceed to customize your design settings and publish your content.