dabler1957

The same problem happened to me today. Updated Styles through WordPress Update and zap – most (not all) of my Customization settings returned to the defaults. I use a Twenty Twelve child theme. Thankfully, I’ve well documented all my settings and they were not extensive, so I was able to reset everything relatively quickly. Hoping this doesn’t happen again, though.

I like neat and orderly. Thanks again for the helpful tips for this web design novice. Think I’ll try that downloadable, ready-made 2012 child theme that esmi mentioned. Could be the perfect way for me to get started.

Thanks, leejosepho, for taking the time to provide the info above. Sadly, while I am aware of Notepad, I’m afraid I am far from ready to start tinkering with css or the like.

Right now, just using the child theme as it comes ‘out of the box,’ using built-in customizing options and handy-dandy plugins is as far as I’m willing to swim out into the web development waters. Maybe someday I’ll be ready for the deep end of the pool. On that day, I’ll keep your sage advice in mind!

Resolved.

Brilliant! Thank you so much. Enjoy the rest of your day, esmi.

Thank you everyone. You’ve all been very helpful and very prompt in replying to my plea for assistance.

I think I’ll dive into the child theme waters and see what happens. Wish me luck!

Sounding like regardless I should create a child theme to be absolutely safe. Everyone agrees?

I reposted this question from a few days back just to be certain I clarified that I’d be actually USING plugins (not just that I installed them) – my concern being that plugins modify the .css and/or .php files to create their magic. (I’ve still a lot to learn about wordpress and unsure on that point.) I am going to be using WordPress’s TwentyTwelve theme.

Seeing the replies above, we’ve already a difference of opinion. So back at you…if the ONLY thing I do is customize using the built-in theme options AND use various plugins, will my customizations to the site be lost during a TwentyTwelve upgrade or not? To clarify, I am not knowingly going into the .css or .php files on my own to make any customizations/changes. If that is happening, it would be via theme options and plugins only. I’m not brave enough or knowledgable enough to touch .css or .php files! ??

Thank you dragonsjaw and WPyogi for such prompt replies! I’m relieved that apparently all is well with my site. However, will likely tiptoe into the child theme arena to be completely safe. Thanks again!