How To Create a LinkedIn Banner Using Canva (Step By Step!)

Q: What are the recommended dimensions for a LinkedIn banner?

1584 x 396 pixels is the standard LinkedIn banner size that looks great on both desktop and mobile.

Q: How do I change my LinkedIn banner on mobile?

Go to your profile, tap the pencil Edit Profile icon, then tap the camera icon under your name and photo to update the banner image.

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Looking to jazz up your LinkedIn profile?

I feel you.

Let’s be real – your LinkedIn can be kinda boring if you don’t take the time to customize it.

That’s where a killer banner comes in!

A well-designed banner or cover pic makes your profile pop and shows off your personality.

But who has the time or money to hire a designer?

That’s why I always use Canva for all my design work.

It’s free and stupid easy that even my grandma could make a banner with it!

In this post, I’ll walk you through how I use Canva to create amazing LinkedIn banners that get noticed.

I’ll share my tips on sizing, using your own photos, and making it look better on both desktop and mobile.

Table of Contents

How To Create a LinkedIn Banner Using Canva

Let’s walk through how to design a top-notch LinkedIn header in Canva:

Step 1: Go to Canva.com and Create a Custom Size

Go to Canva.com and sign up for a free account if you don’t already have one.
Click the green Create a Design button to start a new project.
Click Custom Size and input your banner dimensions. 1584 x 396 px is the recommended dimension for a LinkedIn banner. This size looks fantastic on both desktop and mobile.

Step 2: Search for LinkedIn Banner Templates (Optional)

While you can design your banner from scratch, I recommend starting with one of Canva’s premade LinkedIn banner templates.

From the Canva homepage, In the search bar, type “LinkedIn banner” and browse the template options.
Choose a template with a style and layout you like. Click on it and then click on the “Customise this template” button.

Step 3: Upload Your Profile Photo

Your profile picture is an essential part of your banner.

Click the Uploads tab on the left sidebar.
Select a quality headshot and upload it into Canva.
Drag it onto your banner canvas and resize/position as needed

Step 4: Add Your Name and Other Text

Include important text like your name, tagline, and call-to-action message.

Click the Text tab and select the font styles you like.
Drag text boxes onto your design, edit them and add your own text and customize their font, size, colors, etc.
Use a mix of fonts, sizes, and colors that enhance your brand style.

customize the text on your LinkedIn banner

Step 5: Add Graohic Elements

Visuals like logos, icons, and graphics help draw the eye in.

Browse Canva’s Elements section for icons, shapes, and illustrations.
Drag visuals that align with your brand onto the canvas.
Play with positioning and layering to tie the design together.

Step 6: Play With Different Theme and Styles (Optional)

Want to see how your LinkedIn banner will look with different theme and style?

apply different styles to your LinkedIn banner

Click on Design from the left sidebar and then click Styles tab to browse Canva’s color palette options.
Click on any color palette that complements your brand and profile.
Your LinkedIn banner will quickly transform into that theme in a single click.
You will see all the colors and fonts will be changed
You can keep clicking on different styles and see which one looks best

Step 7: Download and Upload Your Banner

When your design is complete, click the “Share” button from the top right corner.
Choose to download as PNG or JPG.
Go to your LinkedIn profile edit page to upload your new banner.

Professional LinkedIn Banner Design Tips

Now that you know how to make a LinkedIn banner in Canva, let’s talk about design best practices to make yours stand out:

Tip 1: Include your profile photo
As mentioned, your profile pic is a must-have. Position it prominently in the top left or right corner.

Tip 2: Use quality images
Crisp, high-resolution photos look best. Canva has plenty, or you can upload your own visual assets.

Tip 3: Pick an appropriate color palette
Choose colors that represents your personal brand. Canva’s styles make it easy.

Tip 4: Limit text
Keep text short and impactful. Focus on name, headline, tagline, etc.

Tip 5: Direct viewers to your website
Add your website URL and prompt visitors to “Learn more”

Tip 6: Be mindful of spacing
Don’t overcrowd. White space between elements enhances readability.

Tip 7: Include one clear CTA
End with a strong call to action, like “Contact Me”, “Book a Call”, “Hire Me”, etc.

Tip 8: Check mobile layout
Preview how it looks on mobile and optimize for smaller screens.
By following these design best practices, your LinkedIn banner will look like a million bucks – without the need to hire a designer!

FAQs About Canva LinkedIn Banner

Here are some frequently asked questions for the topic how to create Linkedin banner in Canva.

What are the recommended dimensions for a LinkedIn banner?

1584 x 396 pixels is the standard LinkedIn banner size that looks great on both desktop and mobile.

What file type should I use to upload my banner?

JPG or PNG work best.

How do I change my LinkedIn banner on mobile?

Go to your profile, tap the pencil Edit Profile icon, then tap the camera icon under your name and photo to update the banner image.

Does my banner show up on mobile?

Yes, LinkedIn banners display on both desktop and mobile. But elements are stacked vertically on mobile, so optimize your design accordingly.

How often should I change my LinkedIn banner?

It’s a smart move to update your banner every few months or quarterly. Change it up seasonally or when you have big company or career updates.

Can I create a LinkedIn banner on my phone?

Absolutely! The Canva app allows you to easily design graphics and banners on your iPhone or Android device.

Final Thoughts

With this guide, you have everything you need to know to create a stunning, on-brand LinkedIn banner image that makes your profile pop!

People will instantly get a sense of who you are and what you offer when they land on your LinkedIn page.

So boost your personal brand and get more profile views by taking the time to design an eye-catching LinkedIn banner.

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with anyone else who could benefit!

And if you have any doubts or suggestions, then don’t forget to mention them below, I will try to help you in every possible way.

I wish you the best of luck designing your banner.