IconPackager solves this by acting as a bulk editor. It is a system-wide utility that applies "packages" of icons, instantly replacing hundreds of individual graphics with a single click. It handles the heavy lifting of resource hacking and system file patching, turning a day-long project into a ten-second transaction.
Sites like DeviantArt and Themebeta offer free ".iconpackage" files that you can apply if you already have the trial version of IconPackager. You can use the trial for 30 days and then simply uninstall. Iconpackager Product Key
Best of Stardock - Iconpackager instructions – Humble Bundle IconPackager solves this by acting as a bulk editor
Stardock frequently runs seasonal sales (Winter, Summer, etc.) where you can snag a product key for a fraction of the retail price. How to Recover a Lost Key Iconpackager Product Key