Where Does OpenToonz Keep the Stuff Folder and Projects?
OpenToonz centers on the Stuff folder with scenes, palettes and the project database. Default locations on Windows and Mac.
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OpenToonz revolves around one directory: the Stuff folder. It holds scenes, palettes, scripts, profiles and the projects database together. The program barely functions without it, which is why updates sometimes tell you to rename the old one first.
The defaults surprise newcomers. Windows drops it at the drive root, macOS inside the application bundle, both needing elevated rights to touch. Prefer the additional project locations in Preferences (Documents, Desktop or custom) for your own work. Studios keep the shared Stuff folder central; solo animators are happier with Documents.
Where OpenToonz stores this, by platform
C:\OpenToonz stuff
Projects database under projects inside it. Needs admin rights to modify at this location. Set an additional project location in Preferences toward Documents for everyday work.
/Applications/OpenToonz/OpenToonz stuff
Same central role inside the app bundle. Change the projectroot in Contents/Resources/SystemVar.ini to move projects. Keep personal scenes in Documents to survive reinstalls.
Frequently asked questions
How do I change where OpenToonz saves projects?
Open Preferences and set an additional project location to Documents, Desktop or a custom folder. On Mac you can also edit TOONZPROJECTS in SystemVar.ini inside the app bundle. New projects then offer the friendlier location.
Can I back up an OpenToonz project by copying files?
Yes, but copy from the projectroot shown in brackets in the project browser, not just the .tnz scene file. Palettes, drawings and the database entry travel with it. Missing pieces show up as broken links on reopen.
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