Your Pinterest profile deserves to look as polished and professional as your content. Custom board covers are the secret to making that happen.

I’ve been making Pinterest board covers for years. Honestly, creating custom Pinterest board covers takes just a few steps in Canva: design a 1000×1000 pixel square image with your board title and branding, upload it as a pin to your board, then set it as your cover in the board settings.

The difference between a profile with random, mismatched board covers and one with cohesive, branded covers is huge. Custom covers can transform an amateur-looking profile into something that screams credibility.

When someone lands on your profile, those clean, organized board covers tell them you care about your brand and content.

In this guide, I’ll show you everything from choosing the right dimensions to uploading your finished covers. You’ll get my favorite design tricks and learn how to keep your boards looking consistent.

I’ve also included answers to the most common questions about board covers. By the end, you’ll know how to make covers that help your Pinterest profile stand out.

Key Takeaways

• Custom Pinterest board covers should be 1000×1000 pixel square images with your board title and branding elements.
• Upload your cover design as a regular pin first, then set it as your board cover in the settings.
• Keep designs simple—clear fonts and consistent colors make the biggest impact on every device.

Understanding Pinterest Board Covers

Pinterest board covers are the visual faces of your boards. They help create a cohesive brand experience and serve as the first impression for anyone who visits your profile.

These covers can really change how professional your account looks.

What Is a Pinterest Board Cover?

A Pinterest board cover is the main image that represents each board. Think of it as the book cover for your collection of pins.

By default, Pinterest picks one of your saved pins as the cover image. I always recommend making custom covers instead of leaving that up to chance.

Custom board covers give you control over:

• Your brand’s visual consistency
• The message each board communicates
• How organized your profile looks
• The professional appearance of your account

The standard dimensions for Pinterest board covers are 1000 x 1000 pixels. This square format keeps your covers crisp and clear everywhere.

Benefits of Board Covers for Branding

Custom Pinterest board covers help you build your brand presence in a few key ways.

Professional appearance stands out right away. Visiting a Pinterest profile with matching board covers tells me the owner cares about their brand.

Improved navigation makes it easier for visitors to find what they’re after. Clear, readable text on your covers helps people spot the boards they want.

Brand recognition grows when you use the same colors, fonts, and design elements. Sometimes, the covers alone make a profile instantly recognizable.

Visual organization comes from color coding or sticking to a design theme. This helps a lot if you have boards on different topics.

Types of Board Cover Designs

I’ve found three main approaches to Pinterest board cover designs. Each has its own perks.

Text-based covers put the board title front and center, often with your brand name or logo. They’re easy to read at small sizes, and minimal designs work best here.

Photo-based covers use high-quality images from your boards. These shine in visual niches like food, travel, or fashion, as long as the photos share a style and color palette.

Hybrid covers mix text overlays with background images or patterns. This gives you more creative freedom but still keeps things readable. Subtle backgrounds work best—they shouldn’t compete with your text.

Pick a style and stick with it across all your boards for the strongest visual impact.

Choosing the Right Size and Format

Getting your Pinterest board covers sized right is everything. The correct dimensions make your profile look sharp and professional.

I’ve seen too many profiles ruined by sloppy cover sizes.

Ideal Dimensions for Board Covers

I always use 1000 x 1000 pixels for Pinterest board covers. Pinterest displays board covers as squares, so this format fits perfectly.

Some folks use 800 x 800 pixels as a minimum, but I stick to 1000 for better quality without huge file sizes.

Why these dimensions work best:

• Square format fits Pinterest’s display
• High enough resolution for crisp images
• Small enough to load quickly
• Matches other Pinterest image standards

Your profile looks way more cohesive when all your covers use the same size. I’ve noticed profiles with different-sized covers just look messy.

Image File Requirements

Pinterest accepts several file formats. I stick with PNG files for board covers because they look sharp and aren’t too big.

Here’s what you need to know about file formats:

Format	Best For	File Size
PNG	Text overlays, crisp graphics	Medium
JPG	Photo-based covers	Small
GIF	Not recommended	Varies

File size matters too. Keep your board covers under 10MB, but I try for 2-3MB or less. Smaller files load faster and don’t bog down your profile.

PNG is especially great if you’re adding text. It keeps everything sharp, even when Pinterest compresses the image.

Square vs. Rectangular Templates

I always choose square templates for Pinterest board covers. Pinterest displays board covers as squares, so rectangular images get cropped.

Why square templates win:

• No surprise cropping on your profile
• Consistent look on every device
• Easier to design when you know the shape
• Matches Pinterest’s native display

If you upload a rectangular image, Pinterest lets you crop it, but honestly, it’s an extra step and rarely looks as good as starting square.

I’ve tried both, and square templates always give me better results. Your text stays where you put it, and nothing important gets cut off.

Designing Your Pinterest Board Cover

The design process starts with picking a blank canvas or a pre-made template. Then, you customize colors and backgrounds to match your brand.

I’ll walk you through both approaches so you can make covers that feel like you.

Starting with a Blank or Templated Canvas

I always use Canva to make Pinterest board covers. It gives you two main options, and honestly, both are great whether you’re just starting or have more experience.

Blank Canvas Approach:

• Create a custom design at 1000 x 1000 pixels
• Gives you full creative control
• Perfect if you have a clear vision

Template Route:

• Search “Pinterest board cover” in Canva’s templates
• Pick from tons of pre-designed options
• Saves time but still lets you customize

I usually go for the blank canvas. It lets me build exactly what I want, piece by piece.

If you’re new to design, templates are your friend. Find one that fits your vibe, then swap in your own text and colors. It’s a great way to learn while making something nice.

Customizing Colors and Backgrounds

Your color choices really make or break your covers. I stick to my brand colors because consistency is everything.

Background Options:

• Solid colors are best for readability
• Gradients add a bit of flair
• Patterns should be super minimal

I use a light blue background from my brand palette for all my covers. It creates a look people recognize right away.

Your background should support your text, not distract from it.

Color Strategy:

• Pick 2-3 main colors max
• Use high contrast between text and background
• Test colors on mobile—most people use Pinterest on their phones

Keep it simple. I use black text on a light blue background because it’s always easy to read. Fancy color combos might look cool on desktop, but they often get messy on small screens.

Adding and Styling Elements

Let’s talk about the details that make Pinterest board covers pop. From text overlays to branding, these choices help your covers look professional and catch the eye.

Overlaying Text and Choosing Fonts

The text on your board cover tells people what they’ll find inside. I keep my text clear and readable, especially since most people see covers on mobile.

Font Selection Rules:

• Pick fonts that fit your brand’s vibe
• Stick to 1-2 fonts per cover
• Bold, sans-serif fonts are easiest to read
• Skip script fonts—they get blurry when small

I usually put my text in the center or upper part of the cover. That way, it stays visible even if Pinterest crops the image.

In Canva, I bump up the font size until it feels just right—prominent but not shouting.

Text Hierarchy Tips:

• Make the board title your biggest text
• Keep your brand name smaller
• Use contrasting colors for text and background
• Leave some white space so things can breathe

Incorporating Images and Graphics

I prefer simple graphics over busy patterns. Minimal designs just work better at small sizes.

Image Guidelines:

• Use high-quality photos or graphics at 1000×1000 pixels
• Pick images that match your board’s topic
• Keep backgrounds clean and uncluttered
• Avoid photos with too much tiny detail

In Canva, I often use solid backgrounds or a gentle pattern. If I add photos, I throw on a semi-transparent overlay to keep the text readable.

Icons can work too, but I make sure they’re big enough to see even when the cover is tiny.

Visual Balance:

• Put important elements in the center
• Try the rule of thirds for photo placement
• Keep graphics simple and easy to recognize
• Always check how your cover looks when it’s small

Using Consistent Branding

When all your board covers match, your profile instantly feels more professional. It also helps people remember your brand. I stick with the same color palette and fonts every time I make a new cover.

Brand Elements to Include:

• Your signature colors throughout all covers
• Consistent font choices and sizes
• Logo or website name placement
• Similar design style and layout

I made a Canva template and just duplicate it for each new board cover. That way, everything stays cohesive and I save a ton of time. My brand colors show up in the background or the text, and my website name always goes in the same spot.

Branding Best Practices:

• Stick to 3-4 brand colors
• Use the same fonts on every cover
• Keep your logo in one spot
• Make the style and layout uniform

Saving and Optimizing Your Design

After finishing your board covers, save and optimize them so they look sharp everywhere. Having reusable templates means you won’t waste time and your Pinterest stays consistent.

Exporting and Downloading Board Covers

I always pick PNG when exporting my Pinterest board covers. PNG keeps the text crisp and the colors pop, even after Pinterest uploads them.

Set your export size to 1000 x 1000 pixels. That square shape fits Pinterest’s current format perfectly.

When I download from Canva, I select PNG and hit Download for the highest quality. Naming files clearly helps a lot—mine are usually “BoardCover-[BoardName]” so I can spot them later.

Pro tip: If your tool lets you, download all your covers in one go. It’s way easier to keep them sorted that way.

Double-check your covers on different devices. They should look clear on both desktop and mobile.

Reusing and Updating Templates

I keep one master template and duplicate it for every board. This really keeps my Pinterest tidy and professional.

Save your original design as a template. Mine’s labeled “Pinterest Board Cover Template” so I never lose track of it.

When you make a new board, just open the template and swap out the board title. Fonts, colors, and layout stay the same for that consistent look.

Update your templates when:

• You rebrand your business
• Pinterest changes board cover dimensions
• You want to refresh your profile look

Uploading and Setting Board Covers on Pinterest

Once your covers are ready, you’ll need to upload them as pins before setting them as board covers. It’s a two-step process, but it’s not as complicated as it sounds.

Adding Covers to Your Pinterest Boards

I always upload my board cover designs as regular pins first. Pinterest needs the image to exist as a pin on the board before you can use it as a cover.

Here’s what I do:

Go to your board and hit the plus sign at the bottom. Pick “Pin” from the options.

Upload your cover image from your computer or phone. Choose the file you made for that specific board.

Add a title that matches your board name. It just keeps things organized and easy to find.

Write a short description if you want, but honestly, I usually skip this for covers.

Click “Publish” and your cover image is now a pin on the board.

You’ll see the pin show up alongside your other content. If it looks like a regular pin, don’t worry—you’ll set it as the cover in the next step.

Editing Board Covers from Your Profile

To actually set your image as the board cover, head to your Pinterest profile and open the board you want to edit. I think it’s pretty straightforward once you know where to click.

Go to your Pinterest profile and find your board. Click on it to open.

Click “Edit board” (it’s the three dots or a direct button, depending on your view).

Find the “Board cover” section in the settings. There’s usually a plus icon or you’ll see the current cover image.

Click the plus to browse pins from your board. Your new cover design should show up here.

Select your cover image and Pinterest will preview it for you.

Adjust the position if you need to. Most custom covers are already square, so you probably won’t have to move anything.

Click “Done” to save, and then “Done” again to exit settings.

Your new cover will now show up on your profile and in your boards section.

Frequently Asked Questions

A lot of folks hit the same snags with Pinterest board covers—especially with mobile design and uploading. I’ve pulled together the questions I get most about dimensions, creative ideas, templates, and troubleshooting.

What steps do I take to customize my Pinterest board covers using my phone?

You can totally make board covers on your phone. I’d go with the Canva mobile app—it’s easy to use and has all the basics.

Download Canva and start a new design at 1000 x 1000 pixels. Square is the way to go for Pinterest covers.

Add your board title in a font that’s easy to read. Keep it simple, since you’ll be looking at it on a small screen.

Stick your brand name or logo at the bottom. It helps with recognition and makes your profile look put together.

Save your design as a PNG to your camera roll. Then open Pinterest and make a new pin with your board cover image.

Upload it to the right board. Once it’s saved as a pin, go to board settings and set it as your cover.

Can you guide me through updating my Pinterest board covers on an Android device?

On Android, the steps are pretty simple. I open the Pinterest app and go straight to my profile.

Tap the board you want to update. Look for the three dots or “Edit board” in the top right.

Select “Edit board.” There’s a “Board cover” section with a plus sign or your current cover image.

Tap the board cover area. Pinterest will show you all the pins saved to that board.

Pick the pin you want as the new cover. You can use an existing pin or upload a new one.

Move the image around if you need to. Tap “Done” when it looks right.

Why might I be having trouble changing my board cover on Pinterest, and how can I solve it?

I’ve run into a few common problems. Usually, it’s because the image isn’t saved as a pin on the board yet.

Pinterest only lets you use images that already exist as pins on that board. If your image doesn’t show up, pin it first and then try again.

Image size matters too. Make sure your image is at least 600 x 600 pixels so it looks sharp.

Sometimes, the Pinterest app just needs an update. Check your app store, update if needed, and restart the app.

If it’s still not working, try switching to Pinterest on your computer. Sometimes the web version just works better for this stuff.

Clearing your app cache or logging out and back in usually fixes weird glitches for me.

What are some creative ideas for designing eye-catching covers for my Pinterest boards?

I love color coding my boards by topic. Pick different backgrounds for different categories—it’s fun and makes your profile pop.

Typography-focused covers work great. Use bold, easy-to-read fonts and let your board title stand out.

Try adding small icons or graphics that match your board’s theme. A coffee cup for “Morning Routines” just adds a little personality.

Photo-based covers look amazing if you have good images. Go for bright, clear photos that match your board’s vibe.

Minimalist designs usually win. Just your board title and brand name on a clean background can look super polished.

What dimensions should I use to ensure my Pinterest board covers look their best?

The best size for Pinterest board covers is 1000 x 1000 pixels. Square covers always look crisp and professional.

I stick to a 1:1 aspect ratio since Pinterest shows covers as squares. Anything else gets cropped.

For a minimum, use 600 x 600 pixels. Anything smaller can look blurry, especially on newer phones.

PNG is my go-to for covers with text. JPEGs are okay for photos but can mess with text quality.

Keep text and important stuff away from the edges. Pinterest sometimes crops the sides, depending on where your cover shows up.

Remember, covers show up small most of the time. Check your design at a smaller size and make sure it’s still readable.

Where can I find templates to kickstart the design of my Pinterest board covers?

Canva has a ton of free Pinterest board cover templates. I usually just search “Pinterest board cover” in their template library.

The templates already come in the right size, with placeholder text that’s easy to swap out. Super handy if you’re new to this and want it to look polished right away.

Pinterest’s own create tool has a few templates too. They’re pretty basic, but honestly, sometimes that’s all you need.

If you want something that stands out, Etsy’s loaded with paid template bundles. Lots of designers there offer Pinterest cover templates you can tweak to fit your vibe.

Sometimes, I just whip up my own template and duplicate it for each board. Make one cover you really like, then just change the text for the rest—keeps things looking consistent.

Canva Pro (or similar tools) unlocks more premium templates and lets you use brand kit features. If you’re really diving into Pinterest marketing, it might be worth the upgrade.