how to make a .gif animation?

I've wanted to be able to make my own animated icons for a while now but have no idea how. I make flash animations, but no cigar icon-wise. :oops:

Does anyone know how?

If you're using flash, export it as a .gif.

File > Publish Settings > Check .gif

Or Macromedia (now Adobe) Fireworks

oh cool, thanks. :)