Are there any tools for creating Instagram highlight covers?
Instagram Highlights are an excellent way to showcase curated stories on a user’s profile for the long term. While regular stories disappear after 24 hours, Highlights remain visible and offer a great chance for personal branding, promotions, or simply organizing content. A key aspect that visually enhances these Highlight sections is the use of custom Highlight covers. To cater to this growing need, several tools have emerged that make it simple and fun to create Instagram Highlight covers — even without any graphic design experience.
These tools are designed to empower users with customization options, color palettes, icons, and templates. Whether you’re a business aiming for a professional aesthetic or a personal account seeking fun and unique visuals, there are various platforms to help you create beautiful Instagram Highlight covers in no time.
Top Tools for Creating Instagram Highlight Covers
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Here are some of the most popular and user-friendly tools:
- Canva – Canva is one of the most widely used design tools and offers an array of Instagram Highlight cover templates. Users can choose from free or premium designs, change elements such as icons, font, and background colors, and save them in the perfect size for Instagram.
- Over – Over, now part of GoDaddy Studio, is a mobile app that simplifies design for social media. It includes templates and graphics specifically for Instagram highlights. Its mobile-first interface is convenient for on-the-go creativity.
- Adobe Express – Formerly known as Adobe Spark, Adobe Express provides customizable Highlight icons with professional layouts. It’s ideal for users who want a polished final product with slightly more control over design elements.
- Highlight Cover Maker – This is a dedicated app available for both Android and iOS. It includes trendy design elements and stickers. It’s great for users who need quick, pre-made designs and automated resizing.
Key Features to Look For in a Tool
Not all tools are created equal. Depending on your design goals, the right tool should provide:
- Custom Icons and Stickers – The ability to choose from a library of themed icons can give your Highlights a consistent and attractive style.
- Predefined Templates – Save time with ready-to-use templates tailored for Instagram story sizing (1080×1920 px).
- Color and Font Customization – Themes and branding often rely on specific colors and font schemes. Your chosen tool should easily accommodate this.
- Export Options – Ensure the tool allows you to save your designs in high-quality formats optimized for uploading to Instagram.
Tips for Creating Stunning Highlight Covers
- Simplicity is key: Stick to minimal designs with icons at the center. Overly complex graphics may not display well in the small Highlight icon.
- Brand consistency: Use your brand’s color palette and font if you’re creating covers for a business profile. This subtle detail reinforces branding efforts.
- Stick to a theme: Organize your Highlights with matching or complementary designs for a cohesive aesthetic.
Why Instagram Highlight Covers Matter
Highlight covers are often the first thing someone sees on your profile after the bio and profile picture. These elements are not just decorative—they serve as navigational aids and attention grabbers. A visually appealing Highlight set can encourage profile visitors to explore more of your content, follow you, or even contact your brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Do I need graphic design skills to create Highlight covers?
A: No, most tools are beginner-friendly and offer drag-and-drop interfaces. Many even offer pre-made templates. - Q: What size should my Highlight cover be?
A: The recommended size is 1080×1920 pixels to maintain quality and fit within Instagram’s story dimensions. - Q: Can I create Highlight covers directly on Instagram?
A: While you can select any still image from your stories as a Highlight cover, Instagram does not offer in-app design tools for covers. You’ll need to design images separately and then upload them as needed. - Q: Are there any free tools to create Highlight covers?
A: Yes, tools like Canva, Adobe Express, and Highlight Cover Maker offer free versions with plenty of features. - Q: How do I change an existing Highlight cover?
A: Go to your profile, tap and hold the Highlight you want to edit, select “Edit Highlight,” then tap “Edit Cover” to upload a new image.
Instagram Highlight covers, when done right, not only enhance your profile visually but also contribute to consistent branding and better navigation. With so many user-friendly tools available, creating impactful Highlight covers is now accessible to everyone.
