Tags Synced
Tags Synced
Last Edited Time
Jul 3, 2025 11:24 AM
Do not index
Do not index
Platform
Canva
Category
Podcasting
Topic
Cover Art
AI summary
Use Canva to create podcast cover art by choosing templates, ensuring dimensions are between 1400x1400 and 3000x3000 pixels, keeping text readable, and using simple color schemes. Upload personal images if desired, and check technical requirements before publishing. Simplify designs for better visibility as thumbnails.
Last edited by
Related Synced
Related Synced
Design Podcast Cover Art with Canva
TL;DR:
- Canva works well for podcast covers because it's straightforward and has plenty of templates
- Your cover needs to be between 1400x1400 and 3000x3000 pixels square
- Keep text large and readable since most people see covers as tiny thumbnails
- You can upload your own photos or use Canva's built-in image library
- No design experience needed, but simple designs work better than cluttered ones
Main Content
Getting Started with Templates
Canva has a decent selection of podcast cover templates that you can customise. The templates give you a proper starting point instead of staring at a blank canvas.
When you're browsing templates, look for ones that leave enough space for your podcast name. Many templates cram too much detail into the design, which becomes a mess when viewed as a small thumbnail.
Setting Up Your Dimensions
Before you start designing, set your canvas to the right size. Podcast platforms expect square artwork between 1400x1400 and 3000x3000 pixels. Going with 3000x3000 gives you the best quality across all platforms.
In Canva, you can either search for "podcast cover" templates (which are already the right size) or create a custom size document.
Design Basics That Actually Matter
Keep text readable: Your podcast name needs to be legible when the cover is displayed as a small thumbnail. Use bold, clear fonts and make the text large enough to read on a phone screen.
Stick to simple colour schemes: Two or three colours work better than a rainbow. High contrast between text and background makes everything more readable.
Leave breathing room: Don't fill every inch of space. White space (or negative space) helps important elements stand out.
Customising Your Cover
Once you've picked a template, you can swap out the placeholder elements:
- Replace the text with your podcast name and tagline
- Change colours to match your brand (if you have one)
- Upload your own photos or choose from Canva's library
- Adjust the layout if needed
Pro tip: Test your design by shrinking it down to thumbnail size. If you can't read the text or make out the main image, simplify the design.
Technical Requirements
Different podcast platforms have slightly different requirements, but these specs work everywhere:
- Size: 1400x1400 to 3000x3000 pixels (square)
- Format: JPG or PNG
- File size: Under 500KB for most platforms
- Colour mode: RGB (not CMYK)
Canva handles most of this automatically, but it's worth checking your file size before uploading to podcast platforms.
FAQs
Can I use my own photos in Canva?
Yes, you can upload your own images. Just make sure you have the rights to use them commercially if you're planning to monetise your podcast.
What if I want to change my cover art later?
You can update your cover art anytime through your podcast hosting platform. Keep your Canva design saved so you can make quick edits.
Do I need Canva Pro for podcast covers?
The free version works fine for basic covers. Pro gives you more templates and the ability to remove backgrounds from images, but it's not essential.
How do I make sure my cover looks good on all platforms?
Stick to the recommended dimensions and test your design at different sizes. Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms all display covers differently.
Jargon Buster
RGB: Red, Green, Blue colour mode used for digital displays (as opposed to CMYK used for printing)
Template: A pre-made design layout that you can customise with your own text and images
Thumbnail: The small version of your cover art that appears in podcast directories and apps
Canvas: The working area where you create your design
Resolution: How sharp your image looks, measured in pixels
Wrap-up
Creating podcast cover art in Canva is pretty straightforward once you know the basics. Focus on making your podcast name readable, keep the design simple, and make sure you're using the right dimensions.
The biggest mistake people make is overcomplicating their designs. Your cover art needs to work as a tiny thumbnail first, and a large image second. When in doubt, go simpler rather than more complex.
