Pinterest Image Tips: Create Pins That Get Clicked

Your Pinterest image is the first thing people see — and if it doesn't stop the scroll, nothing else matters. I've designed thousands of pins, and I'm sharing the exact tips that consistently drive clicks and saves.

Use a 2:3 aspect ratio for maximum real estate

Pinterest is a vertical platform, so your image should be taller than it is wide. The sweet spot is 1000 x 1500 pixels — a 2:3 ratio. This size fills more of the feed and gives you room for a bold headline and a clear visual. If your image is too square or too wide, Pinterest will crop it, and you might lose important details. For example, a horizontal photo of a living room might get cropped so the sofa is cut off. Always design at 1000 x 1500 or 600 x 900. That way, your pin looks intentional and professional, not like an afterthought.

Make your text readable at a glance

Most people scroll Pinterest quickly, so your text needs to be legible even on a small phone screen. Use a bold, sans-serif font and keep your headline to 5-7 words. Avoid thin scripts or decorative fonts that are hard to read. For instance, instead of '5 Easy Weeknight Dinners,' try '5 Fast Weeknight Dinners' in a chunky font like Montserrat Bold. Also, place text on a solid background or add a semi-transparent overlay so it doesn't blend into the photo. If you're using a busy image, put a dark rectangle behind the text with 50% opacity. That small step makes a huge difference in readability.

Choose colors that stand out in the feed

Pinterest's feed is a sea of white, beige, and pastel. To get noticed, use a color palette that contrasts with the background. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow tend to perform well because they pop against Pinterest's white interface. But don't just pick any bright color — make sure it matches your brand. For example, if your brand is calm and minimalist, try a deep navy or forest green instead of neon pink. Also, use no more than three colors per pin. Too many colors look chaotic and reduce trust. A simple rule: one dominant color, one accent color, and white for text. That keeps your pin clean and clickable.

Show the end result, not the process

People click on pins because they want a specific outcome. Your image should show the finished result, not the steps to get there. For a recipe pin, show the plated dish, not the chopped onions. For a DIY project, show the completed bookshelf, not the saw and nails. When you show the result, viewers instantly understand the value. For example, a pin for 'How to Paint a Dresser' should feature a beautifully painted dresser in a styled room, not a messy garage. That visual promise is what drives clicks. If you must show a process shot, add a 'before and after' split — that works too.

Add a subtle call to action

A clear call to action (CTA) tells people what to do next. On Pinterest, that means inviting them to click, save, or learn more. But don't scream 'CLICK NOW' — that feels spammy. Instead, use phrases like 'Read the full guide,' 'Get the recipe,' or 'See all 10 ideas.' Place your CTA at the bottom of the pin in a smaller font than your headline. For instance, a pin about home organization might say 'Get the free checklist' at the bottom. That gives a gentle nudge without being pushy. And remember: your CTA should match the landing page. If the pin says 'Get the recipe,' the link better lead to a recipe, not a newsletter signup.

Test different image styles to see what works

What works for one account might not work for yours. The only way to know is to test. Create two versions of the same pin — one with a photo background and one with a solid color background — and see which gets more saves and clicks. You can use Pinterest's built-in analytics to track performance after a week. For example, I once tested a pin with a white background and bold black text against a pin with a full-bleed photo. The photo pin got 3x more saves. That told me my audience prefers lifestyle imagery. So don't guess — test, measure, and double down on what works. It's the fastest way to improve.

Keep your branding consistent

Your pins should look like they belong together. Use the same fonts, colors, and logo placement across all your images. This builds recognition — people will start to spot your pins in the feed and trust them. For example, if you always put your logo in the bottom right corner and use a specific shade of teal, your audience will learn to associate that with your brand. Consistency doesn't mean every pin looks identical — you can vary the layout and photos — but the overall style should feel cohesive. That way, when someone loves one of your pins, they'll click your profile and immediately recognize your other content as high-quality too.

How to Do It, Step by Step

1. 1Set your canvas to 1000 x 1500 pixels
   Open Canva or your design tool and create a custom size of 1000 x 1500 pixels. This 2:3 ratio is the standard for Pinterest and ensures your pin won't get cropped in the feed.
2. 2Choose a high-contrast background
   Pick a background that stands out against Pinterest's white interface. A solid color or a photo with a clear focal point works best. Avoid busy patterns that make text hard to read.
3. 3Add a bold, short headline
   Use a sans-serif font in a large size. Keep your headline to 5-7 words. Place it at the top or center, and make sure it's readable on a small screen.
4. 4Include a subtle call to action
   Add a small line at the bottom like 'Read the full guide' or 'Get the recipe.' Use a smaller font than your headline so it doesn't compete for attention.
5. 5Add your logo or website URL
   Place your logo in a consistent spot, like the bottom right corner. This builds brand recognition and makes it easy for people to find you.
6. 6Test two versions with different styles
   Create a second version with a different background or layout. Post both and check Pinterest analytics after a week to see which performs better.

Your Pinterest image isn't just a pretty picture — it's a promise of what someone will get when they click.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best size for a Pinterest image?

The best size is 1000 x 1500 pixels, which is a 2:3 aspect ratio. This size fills more of the feed and prevents cropping, making your pin look professional.

How much text should I put on a Pinterest image?

Keep text to a minimum — ideally 5-7 words for the headline plus a short call to action. Too much text overwhelms viewers and reduces readability on small screens.

Should I use a photo or a solid color background for Pinterest pins?

Both can work, but it depends on your audience. Test both styles. Photos often perform well for lifestyle and food content, while solid colors work for quotes and tips.

How often should I post new Pinterest images?

Aim to post 3-5 fresh pins per day if you can, but consistency matters more than quantity. Even 1-2 high-quality pins daily can drive steady traffic over time.

Do I need to include my logo on every Pinterest image?

Yes, it's a good idea to include a small logo or website URL on every pin. It builds brand recognition and helps people find your profile when they see your pin in the feed.