Tips & Tricks

Pinterest Banner Size 2025: Header Dimensions Guide

Matt
Matt
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TL;DR - Quick Answer

15 min read

Tips that work. Use them right now to get better results.

Pinterest Banner Size Requirements

The optimal Pinterest banner size is 1200 x 600 pixels for desktop viewing. However, Pinterest displays banners differently across devices, so understanding all dimension requirements is crucial for perfect presentation.

Pinterest Header Dimensions

Desktop Dimensions

  • Recommended size: 1200 x 600 pixels
  • Minimum width: 600 pixels
  • Aspect ratio: 2:1
  • File format: JPG or PNG
  • Maximum file size: 10 MB

Mobile Dimensions

  • Display size: 600 x 300 pixels (scaled)
  • Safe zone: Center 600 x 300 pixels
  • Cropping: Top and bottom may be cut

Profile Cover Specifications

  • Resolution: 72 DPI minimum
  • Color mode: RGB
  • Transparency: PNG supports transparency
  • Animation: Not supported

Pinterest Banner Safe Zones

Critical Content Area

Keep important elements within these boundaries:

Desktop Safe Zone:
- Width: 800 pixels (centered)
- Height: 400 pixels (centered)
- Margin: 200px horizontal, 100px vertical

Mobile Safe Zone:
- Width: 400 pixels (centered)
- Height: 200 pixels (centered)
- Margin: 100px horizontal, 50px vertical

What Gets Cropped

Different devices crop your banner differently:

DeviceVisible AreaCropped Area
DesktopFull 1200x600None
Tablet900x450 (approx)Edges
Mobile600x300Top, bottom, sides
AppVariesDepends on screen

Design Best Practices

Visual Hierarchy

  1. Center important elements: Logo, tagline, or key visuals
  2. Use readable fonts: Minimum 24pt for mobile visibility
  3. High contrast: Ensure text stands out
  4. Simple design: Avoid cluttered layouts

Color Considerations

  • Use brand colors consistently
  • Ensure sufficient contrast (4.5:1 ratio minimum)
  • Test on different screen brightnesses
  • Consider seasonal updates

Typography Guidelines

Font sizes for optimal readability:

  • Main headline: 48-72pt
  • Subheading: 32-40pt
  • Body text: 24-32pt
  • Minimum size: 24pt

Creating Your Pinterest Banner

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Open design software: Canva, Photoshop, or similar
  2. Set canvas size: 1200 x 600 pixels
  3. Add background: Solid color or subtle pattern
  4. Place logo: Center or left-aligned
  5. Add text: Keep within safe zones
  6. Export: Save as JPG or PNG

Using Templates

Free template resources:

  • Canva: Pinterest banner templates
  • Adobe Express: Free banner maker
  • PicMonkey: Pinterest cover templates
  • Crello: Social media headers

Design Tools Comparison

ToolFree OptionTemplatesEase of UseExport Quality
CanvaYes1000+EasyHigh
PhotoshopNoCustomAdvancedHighest
GIMPYesLimitedModerateHigh
FigmaYesCommunityModerateHigh

Uploading Your Pinterest Banner

Desktop Upload Process

  1. Log into Pinterest
  2. Click your profile picture
  3. Click the pencil icon on your current banner
  4. Select "Change"
  5. Upload your 1200x600 image
  6. Adjust positioning if needed
  7. Save changes

Mobile Upload Process

  1. Open Pinterest app
  2. Go to your profile
  3. Tap Edit Profile
  4. Tap the camera icon on banner
  5. Choose image from gallery
  6. Position and save

Common Upload Issues

Problem: Banner looks blurry

  • Solution: Ensure 1200x600 resolution
  • Check file compression settings
  • Use PNG for text-heavy designs

Problem: Important elements cut off

  • Solution: Keep content in safe zones
  • Test on multiple devices
  • Redesign with mobile-first approach

Pinterest Banner Ideas by Niche

Business Accounts

E-commerce:

  • Product showcase
  • Seasonal promotions
  • Brand story
  • Call-to-action

Service Providers:

  • Value proposition
  • Contact information
  • Service highlights
  • Trust badges

Creator Accounts

Bloggers:

  • Blog name and tagline
  • Content categories
  • Posting schedule
  • Website URL

Artists/Designers:

  • Portfolio preview
  • Style showcase
  • Commission info
  • Social links

Personal Brands

Influencers:

  • Personal photo
  • Niche identifier
  • Follower milestones
  • Collaboration info

Coaches/Consultants:

  • Professional headshot
  • Expertise areas
  • Free resource offer
  • Booking link

Tips for Better Results

SEO Benefits

  • Include keywords in file name
  • Add alt text when possible
  • Update seasonally for freshness
  • Match banner to board themes

Engagement Strategies

  1. Seasonal updates: Change every 3 to 4 months
  2. A/B testing: Try different designs
  3. Brand consistency: Match other platforms
  4. Clear messaging: Communicate value instantly

Performance Tracking

Monitor these metrics:

  • Profile visits after banner change
  • Follower growth rate
  • Board engagement
  • Click-through rates

Pinterest Banner Examples

Effective Banner Elements

Must-haves:

  • Clear brand name
  • Consistent color scheme
  • Professional imagery
  • Readable typography

Nice-to-haves:

  • Tagline or slogan
  • Social proof
  • Call-to-action
  • Contact details

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Too much text: Clutters mobile view
  2. Poor contrast: Hard to read
  3. Stretched images: Maintain aspect ratio
  4. Outdated information: Regular updates needed
  5. Copyright issues: Use licensed images only

Tools and Resources

Free Design Resources

Stock Photos:

  • Unsplash
  • Pexels
  • Pixabay
  • Burst by Shopify

Fonts:

  • Google Fonts
  • Font Squirrel
  • DaFont (check licenses)
  • Adobe Fonts (with account)

Color Palettes:

  • Coolors.co
  • Adobe Color
  • Paletton
  • Color Hunt

Pinterest Banner Checklist

Before uploading, verify:

  • ✓ Size is exactly 1200 x 600 pixels
  • ✓ File size under 10 MB
  • ✓ Important content in safe zones
  • ✓ Text is readable at 50% size
  • ✓ Brand colors are accurate
  • ✓ No copyrighted material
  • ✓ Tested on mobile preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct Pinterest banner size?

The correct Pinterest banner size is 1200 x 600 pixels with a 2:1 aspect ratio. This size ensures your banner displays properly on desktop, while mobile devices will scale it to 600 x 300 pixels.

What happens if my Pinterest banner is the wrong size?

Pinterest will automatically resize your image, which may result in cropping, stretching, or poor quality. Using the correct 1200 x 600 pixel dimensions ensures your banner displays properly across all devices.

What file format should I use for Pinterest banners?

Pinterest accepts JPG and PNG file formats for banners. Use PNG if your design includes text or transparency, and JPG for photographs. Keep file size under 10 MB for best upload performance.

How often should I change my Pinterest banner?

Update your Pinterest banner seasonally (3-4 times per year) or when you have major announcements, rebrand, or want to promote specific content. Regular updates keep your profile fresh and relevant.

Can I use animated GIFs for Pinterest banners?

No, Pinterest doesn't support animated banners or GIFs. Only static JPG or PNG images are accepted for profile banners. Focus on creating eye-catching static designs instead.

What is the Pinterest banner safe zone?

The Pinterest banner safe zone is the center 800 x 400 pixels on desktop and center 400 x 200 pixels on mobile. Keep important text, logos, and key elements within these areas to prevent cropping on smaller screens.

Does Pinterest banner size affect SEO?

While banner size doesn't directly impact Pinterest SEO, a properly sized banner improves user experience and professional appearance, which can indirectly benefit your Pinterest presence and engagement.

Can I use different banners for different Pinterest boards?

No, Pinterest only allows one banner for your entire profile. Individual boards can have cover images, but not separate banners. Your profile banner represents your entire Pinterest presence.

What tools can I use to create Pinterest banners?

Popular tools for creating Pinterest banners include Canva (with Pinterest templates), Adobe Photoshop, GIMP (free), PicMonkey, and Adobe Express. Canva is especially beginner-friendly with pre-sized Pinterest banner templates.

How do I upload a new Pinterest banner?

To upload a Pinterest banner: 1) Go to your Pinterest profile, 2) Click the pencil icon on your current banner, 3) Select 'Change', 4) Upload your 1200 x 600 pixel image, 5) Adjust positioning if needed, and 6) Save changes.

Conclusion

Getting your Pinterest banner size right is crucial for making a strong first impression. Stick to the 1200 x 600 pixel dimension, keep important content centered, and design with mobile users in mind. Regular updates and testing will help you maintain an engaging profile that converts visitors into followers.

Remember, your Pinterest banner is often the first thing potential followers see. Make it count by following these guidelines and best practices.

Ready to create stunning Pinterest content? Try SocialRails to schedule your pins, track performance, and manage all your social media from one platform.

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