Classic Shell: Forum

So I understand, or at least I think I understand, how to change the start button in classic shell. But when I do, it's square, and badly sized as well. So what I'm needed assistance with is a) how to use a custom button without it being square and b) what is the default size for the start button?

Noob question, I'm sure.

The image size determines the default button size. The width stays the same and the height is divided by 3.
So if your image has 1:3 aspect ratio, then the button will be square.

Then I suppose what I'm asking is what size is the default shell icon? If I knew this I could size the image to be the same size so it fits correctly, if that makes sense.

I also don't understand what you mean about the aspect ratio. Clearly it is possible to have a circular icon as the shell icon that comes with classic shell is circular. When I find icons from here, they're in a rectangular strip of three and I'm unable to select anything other than a square shaped area to use as the icon.

The default Aero button in Classic Shell is 54x54 pixels.

Aspect ratio is the ratio between the width and the height. For a square button that is 54x54, the image must be 54x162. So aspect ratio is 1:3.

"When I find icons from here, they're in a rectangular strip of three and I'm unable to select anything other than a square shaped area to use as the icon."
Hmm? in the 'Start button tab' do you have 'Custom Button' selected? after that you should be able to navigate to any .png image on your computer to select as your button. If this fails, perhaps a screenshot of your start button tab in classic shell settings?