How to create a custom YouTube thumbnail

2023 Author: Martin Macey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 06:41

Thumbnails can draw attention to your video. According to YouTube statistics, 90% of the most popular videos use custom thumbnails. Decided to create a thumbnail for your YouTube video? Then let's get started!

Steps

Part 1 of 4: Preparation

Step 1. Verify your YouTube account by SMS or call

Step 2. Open the Google Images tab and find a suitable background

Be sure to add an image size of 1280 x 720, which is the optimal size for thumbnail viewing on desktop and mobile devices.

Step 3. Copy the background

Step 4. Open a graphics editor and insert a background

Part 2 of 4: Add a custom font

Step 1. Go to a custom font site such as DaFont or Fonts-online and select a category

Scroll through the list of fonts and download one of them.

Step 2. Save the ZIP archive and open it

Step 3. Open the font file (most likely it will be in TTF or OTF format)

Step 4. Click on the "Install" button

Step 5. Return to the graphic editor

Step 6. Add text over the background to be displayed on the thumbnail

Select the font you just downloaded. Do not place the text too close to the edge, as it may be cut off.

Part 3 of 4: Design the miniature

Step 1. Decorate your thumbnail the way you want

Add transparent clip art and images to grab people's attention.

Step 2. Comply with YouTube's Terms of Service

Don't add inappropriate content or anything that can mislead people.

Part 4 of 4: Save the image and upload it to YouTube

Step 1. Save the picture in-p.webp" />

If the file is larger than 2 MB, save it in-j.webp" />

Step 2. Add a custom thumbnail to your video

Advice

• Make your miniature unique.
• Use a font that matches the video (for example, for a video titled Heat Waves, insert text that looks like a flame).
• Find a font that catches your eye right away!
• Make your thumbnail truthful, not a bait for more views.