Usually, this happens because a computer or browser "unzipped" the project automatically, or a user manually changed the extension to .zip to look at the code. Because SB3 files use ZIP compression, computers often treat them as interchangeable—but the Scratch editor only recognizes the .sb3 extension. Method 1: The Quick Rename (Easiest)
Highlight the items inside the folder (Ctrl+A or Cmd+A).
If your sprites or sounds are missing after conversion, check the original ZIP. If the files were renamed (e.g., from a1b2...png to costume1.png ), Scratch won't be able to find them. The filenames inside the ZIP must match the references inside the project.json file. convert zip to sb3
A warning will pop up saying, "If you change a file name extension, the file might become unusable." Click or Use .sb3 .
Some community-made "Scratch Tools" or "Project Downloaders" allow you to upload assets and export them directly as a finished SB3. Troubleshooting Common Issues Usually, this happens because a computer or browser
The "brain" of your project containing all the code and logic. SVG/PNG files: Your costumes and backdrops. WAV/MP3 files: Your sound effects and music. Why do I have a ZIP instead of an SB3?
The Ultimate Guide to Converting ZIP to SB3: Unlock Your Scratch Projects If your sprites or sounds are missing after
Open the Scratch Online Editor , go to , and select your new file. Method 2: Re-Zipping Extracted Files
Once the new .zip is created, follow the renaming steps in Method 1 to change the extension to .sb3 . Method 3: Using Online Conversion Tools