Customizable Player Models vs NeedCoolerShoes

Customizable Player Models is a free, MIT-licensed project for creating custom avatars for Minecraft Java Edition. Its editor lets users alter vanilla player parts, add custom model parts and textures, and hide or move pieces of the normal player model. Textures can be animated, and parts of a skin can glow. Models must be exported and loaded by uploading the exported image as a Minecraft skin; exported models can also be stored in unused skin space or as a GitHub Gist. Export options include a Minecraft skin file, .cpmmodel, and Base64 model data. The maker lists mod downloads for Forge, NeoForge, Fabric, and Quilt across Minecraft versions. An optional Bukkit/Spigot plugin supports in-game skin changes and offers the same features as installing the mod on a Forge or Fabric server. Voice chat animations need separate compatibility mods. ViveCraft support is listed, and OSC-driven animations require the CPM OSC compatibility addon. The model-sharing site is under development; the project links to Discord for support and bug reports.

NeedCoolerShoes is a free Minecraft skin editor and community gallery for creating and sharing skins and skin parts. Its layer-based editor supports Slim and Classic models, and users can search for parts or make and share their own. Categories include full skins, clothing, armor, accessories, footwear, and player head blocks. Reference images can help guide a design, including by providing colors to pick. The editor has blend palettes, with custom palettes available to advanced users, and character previews for both Minecraft editions. A banner maker supports newer patterns and generates commands for modern Minecraft; the site says it works on mobile devices. NeedCoolerShoes is available on web, Android, and iOS, and provides a mobile version of its editor. It describes itself as a fan-made restoration, so accounts from the original site are not available. Donations support hosting, storage, and operating costs, while the site says it will remain free. Its privacy policy says it does not sell user information to third parties.