How to Create Pinterest Images That Drive Traffic & Clicks

Ever scroll through Pinterest and find yourself mesmerized by those picture-perfect Pins? You know, the ones that make you stop and think, “How do people make these so effortlessly gorgeous?”

Guess what? You’re about to join their club.

Creating Pinterest images isn’t rocket science. It’s more like playing with a digital art kit—one that can bring more traffic, clicks, and saves to your website, blog, or business. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional photographer or a design wizard to pull it off.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step of making Pinterest-ready images that turn heads. Whether you’re promoting a recipe, a DIY project, or your latest blog post, you’ll leave with everything you need to get started—and a few tips to make your Pins pop.

Let’s dive in!

What Makes a Pinterest Image Stand Out?

Pinterest is a visual playground, and standing out means understanding what works. Let’s break the shackles behind Pinterest images that grab attention and drive clicks.

• Vertical is Non-Negotiable: Pinterest loves vertical images. The platform is designed for scrolling, and vertical Pins take up the most visual real estate. Stick to a 2:3 ratio—think 1000x1500px. It’s the golden size that works on every screen.

• Add Text That Pops: A stunning image is great, but text overlays seal the deal. Highlight what your Pin is about with clear, readable fonts. For example, if you’re sharing a recipe, use a bold title like “5-Minute Mug Cake” right at the top.

• Stick to Your Brand Style: Consistency is key. Whether it’s colors, fonts, or your logo, let your Pins scream your brand. Add your logo in a subtle corner or use your website’s color palette. This keeps things cohesive and builds recognition over time.

• High-Quality Images Are a Must: Blurry or pixelated photos are a no-go. Use sharp, vibrant images that catch the eye. If you’re not a pro with the camera, stock photo websites like Unsplash and Pexels are your best friends.

• Include a Call-to-Action: Want more clicks, saves, or sign-ups? Ask for it! Add a call-to-action like “Get the Recipe”, “Learn More” or “Shop Now”. These small additions push Pinterest users to take the next step.

• Keep it Simple: Overloading a Pin with too much text, graphics, or elements can be overwhelming. A clean design is easier on the eyes and more likely to get noticed.

Pro tip: Use contrasting colors to make the text stand out. White on dark images or bright colors on muted backgrounds work wonders.

Tools You Need to Create Pinterest Images

Let’s be real—no one wants to spend hours figuring out complicated software. The good news? There are plenty of user-friendly tools that make creating Pinterest images as easy as pie.

Here are some favorites:

Beginner-Friendly Platforms:

1. Canva: The Beginner’s Best Friend

Canva is the go-to tool for creating Pinterest images. It has pre-made templates, drag-and-drop features, and all the fonts and graphics you’ll ever need. Whether you’re starting from scratch or tweaking a template, Canva keeps things simple and fun. Bonus: It’s free (with some optional paid features).

2. Adobe Express: A Creative Powerhouse

If you want a polished, professional vibe without the learning curve, Adobe Express has you covered. It’s great for adding custom graphics, cool effects, and unique fonts that make your Pins pop.

3. Snappa: Quick and Clean Designs

Snappa keeps things straightforward. It’s another drag-and-drop tool that’s super beginner-friendly. With built-in templates for Pinterest, you don’t have to worry about dimensions or design details.

Advanced Tools:

4. Photoshop: For the Design Pros

If you’re up for a challenge or want full creative control, Photoshop is the tool for you. While it has a steeper learning curve, it’s unmatched in terms of flexibility and professional quality.

5. Tailwind Create: Pinning on Autopilot

Tailwind Create is a lifesaver for busy creators. It generates multiple Pins in minutes based on your branding. You upload your photos, add your text, and voilà—hundreds of ready-to-go Pins. Perfect for batching content.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Pinterest Images

Now that we’ve got the tools, let’s dive into the process of creating Pinterest images that people can’t help but click on. Follow these steps, and you’ll be crafting scroll-stopping Pins in no time.

1. Start with the Right Dimensions

Always, always use the vertical format. Set your canvas to a 2:3 ratio (1000x1500px). This size dominates the Pinterest feed, giving your Pin the most visual real estate. Most design tools, like Canva, have pre-set templates, so you don’t have to guess.

For a detailed guide on choosing the best dimensions for your Pins, check out this Pinterest Pin Dimensions guide.

2. Choose a Stunning Background

Your background sets the tone for your Pin. Use a clean, high-quality photo or a solid color that contrasts with your text. If you’re stuck, check out free stock photo sites like Unsplash or Pexels for inspiration.

3. Add a Text Overlay That Tells a Story

Text overlays are your chance to grab attention. Use bold fonts for your main message and smaller, easy-to-read text for subheadings. For example, if your Pin promotes a blog post, your overlay might say:

“10 Ways to Simplify Meal Prep”

Subheading: “Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Days.”

Keep it short, sweet, and impactful.

4. Incorporate Graphics and Icons

Add subtle arrows, shapes, or icons to guide the viewer’s eye. For instance, a small arrow pointing to your call-to-action button works wonders. Just don’t overdo it—too many graphics can clutter your Pin.

5. Make Your Brand Shine

Your Pin should reflect your unique style. Add your logo or website URL in a corner (bottom right is ideal). Stick to your brand colors and fonts to maintain a cohesive look across your Pins.

6. Include a Call-to-Action

Want people to click? Tell them what to do. Simple phrases like:

• “Click to Learn More”
• “Save This for Later”
• “Get the Recipe”
• “Order Now”

7. Export Your Pin Like a Pro

Once your design is ready, save it as a JPEG or PNG. Keep the file size under 5MB to ensure it loads quickly on Pinterest. High-quality visuals that don’t slow down are key to getting more traffic.

Quick Example: Breaking Down a Great Pin

Imagine creating a Pin for a blog post about “5-Minute Workouts”:

• Background: A bright, energetic photo of workout gear.
• Text Overlay: “5-Minute Workouts for Busy People”
• Branding: Your logo is in the bottom right corner.
• Call-to-Action: “Click for Free Workout Tips”

How to Resize Images for Pinterest

Creating Pinterest images is only effective if they’re optimized for the platform’s preferred dimensions. Here’s how you can resize your images to fit Pinterest perfectly.

1. Understand Pinterest’s Ideal Dimensions

Pinterest recommends using a 2:3 aspect ratio for optimal performance. The most common size is 1000×1500 pixels. This format looks great on both desktop and mobile screens.

Avoid horizontal or square images—they don’t take up enough space on the Pinterest feed and tend to get less engagement.

2. Use Online Tools for Resizing

If your images don’t match Pinterest’s recommended dimensions, don’t worry. Here are some simple tools to resize them:

• Canva: Use the “Resize” feature to adjust your canvas size effortlessly.
• Adobe Express: Great for customizing dimensions while maintaining image quality.
• Online Image Resizer: Websites like ResizeImage.net allow you to resize images without downloading any software.

3. Maintain Image Quality

When resizing, ensure the resolution remains high. Blurry or pixelated images lose their appeal. Use PNG format for sharper graphics or JPEG for smaller file sizes without compromising quality.

4. Crop Smartly

If your image needs cropping, focus on the most visually striking part. Make sure important elements like text or subjects aren’t cut off in the process.

Pro tip: Keep your text and call-to-action centered to avoid them getting cropped in the Pinterest feed.

5. Batch Resize for Efficiency

If you’re working with multiple images, batch resizing tools like Canva Pro or Adobe Photoshop can save time. You can set a standard size for all your Pinterest images and apply it across your designs.

6. Test Your Resized Images

Before uploading, preview your resized images on both desktop and mobile screens. This ensures everything looks as intended and the text is readable.

Resizing your images properly ensures they’ll perform well on Pinterest, taking full advantage of the platform’s visual space. Let me know if this section works, and I’ll finalize the conclusion!

Design Tips to Make Your Pinterest Images Pop

Now that you know the steps, let’s talk about how to take your Pinterest images from good to irresistible. These tips will ensure your Pins grab attention, get saved, and drive more traffic to your content.

• Use Bold, Eye-Catching Colors

Colors matter—a lot. Bright, contrasting hues catch the eye and make your Pin stand out in the Pinterest feed. Avoid dull or overly busy backgrounds that can distract from your message.

Pro tip: Choose colors that align with your brand for a cohesive look. If your brand is minimal, stick to soft pastels; for a bold vibe, go for vibrant shades like red or yellow.

• Keep Your Fonts Simple and Readable

Pinterest is a mobile-first platform, so your text needs to be easy to read, even on smaller screens. Stick to no more than two font styles—one for the headline and another for supporting text.

Avoid cursive or overly decorative fonts that might look pretty but are hard to read. When in doubt, bold sans-serif fonts work like magic.

• Balance Graphics and Whitespace

Clutter is the enemy of good design. Use whitespace to give your elements breathing room. Add icons, shapes, or frames, but don’t overdo it—less is often more.

Think of your Pin as a mini-advertisement. Every element should guide the viewer toward your call-to-action or the main message.

• Use High-Quality Photos

Blurry or pixelated pictures will kill your Pin’s appeal. Invest in sharp, well-lit photos. If photography isn’t your thing, rely on free resources like Unsplash or premium options like Shutterstock for a polished look.

For lifestyle content, aim for relatable, human-focused images. For products, ensure the picture highlights details clearly.

• Add Your Branding Without Overwhelming the Design

Your logo, website, or tagline should be present but not overpowering. A small logo in the bottom right corner is enough to remind viewers who you are without distracting from the content.

• Experiment with Pin Styles

You don’t have to stick to one format. Try different styles based on your content:

1. Infographics: Great for step-by-step guides or tutorials.

2. Collages: Perfect for showcasing multiple images, like product variations.

3. Text-Heavy Pins: Ideal for blog post highlights.

• Stay on Top of Pinterest Trends

Pinterest trends change with the seasons. Use the platform’s trends tool to see what’s hot and tailor your Pins accordingly. For example, seasonal colors or themes (think holidays or back-to-school) often perform better.

Quick Tip: Test and Learn

Not sure what works? Create a few variations of the same Pin with different designs and track which one gets more engagement. Pinterest Analytics is a great tool for this.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Pinterest Images

Even with the best intentions, some common mistakes can derail your Pinterest strategy.

Let’s look at what to steer clear of when creating Pinterest images.

1. Skipping the Vertical Format

Pinterest is all about vertical Pins. Using horizontal or square images can make your Pins blend into the background, reducing engagement. Stick to the recommended 2:3 ratio to take full advantage of Pinterest’s visual real estate.

2. Overloading Your Pin with Text

Yes, text overlays are essential, but too much can overwhelm your audience. Keep your message concise—one headline and a short subheading are usually enough. For example, instead of:

“The Ultimate Guide to Making Quick, Easy, and Delicious 5-Minute Desserts”,

go for:

“5-Minute Desserts You’ll Love.”

3. Using Poor-Quality Images

Pinterest users are drawn to visually stunning content. Blurry or pixelated photos send the wrong message. Use crisp, high-resolution pictures that reflect your content’s quality. Websites like Pexels and Unsplash offer plenty of free, high-quality options.

4. Forgetting to Optimize for Mobile Users

A large chunk of Pinterest users browse on their phones. Small fonts, overcrowded designs, or poorly placed elements can make your Pins hard to read. Test your Pins on a mobile device to ensure everything looks just right.

5. Ignoring Branding

Failing to add your logo or website URL can make it harder for viewers to associate your content with your brand. Add subtle branding to your Pins—like a logo in the bottom right corner—to reinforce recognition.

6. Not Adding a Call-to-Action

Pins without a clear action often get ignored. Whether it’s “Save for Later” or “Click for More,” a call-to-action prompts Pinterest users to engage with your content. Don’t leave them guessing—tell them what to do.

7. Neglecting SEO

Pinterest is also a search engine. Forgetting to include keywords like “how to create Pinterest images” or “creating Pinterest images” in your Pin titles and descriptions can limit your reach. Add relevant keywords naturally to help your Pins appear in search results.

Staying Inspired and Keeping Your Pinterest Content Fresh

Pinterest is all about creativity, and staying inspired is the key to crafting Pins that consistently stand out.

Let’s explore ways to keep your ideas flowing and your content looking fresh.

1. Follow Pinterest Trends

Pinterest is a treasure trove of ideas, and its Trends tool can help you stay ahead. Search for seasonal topics, popular keywords, and high-performing content. For example, holidays like Halloween or Christmas always spark interest. Use these insights to tailor your Pins.

2. Explore Content in Your Niche

Browse what others are posting in your niche to spark inspiration. If you’re in the food industry, check out trending recipes or meal prep ideas. For bloggers, explore Pins related to your most popular articles and see how others present their content.

3. Repurpose Old Content

Got older content that performed well? Give it a new life! Update the graphics, refresh the text overlay, and add new call-to-action phrases. This works especially well for evergreen blog posts or tutorials.

4. Experiment with New Formats

Pinterest is constantly evolving, and new formats like Idea Pins and Video Pins are worth exploring. These can add variety to your content and engage Pinterest users in fresh ways.

5. Keep a Swipe File

Whenever you see a Pin that catches your eye, save it for future reference. A swipe file—a collection of Pins, ideas, or inspirations—can be a lifesaver when you’re feeling stuck.

6. Tap into Other Visual Platforms

Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and even TikTok can be great sources of inspiration. Pay attention to trends and popular visuals, then adapt them for your Pinterest Pins.

7. Collaborate with Creators

Partnering with other creators or brands can inject fresh ideas into your Pinterest strategy. Whether it’s a shared board or a guest post, collaborations can breathe new life into your content.

8. Regularly Audit Your Pins

Every few months, review your Pinterest feed. Are your Pins still aligned with your brand? Are there any outdated designs that need a refresh? A quick audit keeps your Pinterest account looking professional.

9. Celebrate Seasons and Events

Seasonal and event-based Pins perform exceptionally well. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day crafts or summer travel tips, tie your content to relevant times of the year to stay timely.

Take it a step further with RecurPost’s new AI feature that helps you create special day posts effortlessly. From holidays to trending events, let AI craft engaging content tailored for your audience.

Conclusion

Creating Pinterest images isn’t just about making something pretty—it’s about crafting visuals that grab attention, drive clicks, and align with your goals. From understanding dimensions to adding bold text overlays, every detail counts. Use the tips and tools in this guide to design Pins that stand out and bring more traffic your way.

Now it’s your turn. Start creating, experimenting, and watching your Pinterest game grow. Remember, every great Pin starts with a simple idea—and the confidence to hit “Post.” Let’s make something amazing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions people have about creating Pinterest images. These answers will help you avoid confusion and perfect your Pinterest strategy.