Step 1: Open the Application

After installing the app, open YT Thumbnail Maker & Banner Art from the Windows Start menu.

When the application launches, you will see the main screen with options such as:

• Create Thumbnail

• Pre Designed Templates

• My Draft

Each option helps you begin a design in a different way.

Step 2: Choose How You Want to Start

Decide how you want to create your thumbnail.

Create Thumbnail

Start from a blank canvas and build your design using backgrounds, images, and text tools.

Pre Designed Templates

Select a ready-made layout and customize it with your own text and images.

My Draft

Open a previously saved design and continue editing.

Click the option you want to use.

Step 3: Understand the Thumbnail Canvas

When the editor opens, the canvas will already be set to 1280 × 720, which is the standard size used for YouTube thumbnails.

This means your design will automatically fit the correct dimensions when uploaded to YouTube.

Step 4: Choose a Background

The background sets the visual tone of your thumbnail.

To add a background:

1. Click Background from the editing panel.

2. Browse through the available background options.

3. Select a style you like.

You can choose from:

• Solid color backgrounds

• Textured backgrounds

• Graphic backgrounds

• Image backgrounds

You may also adjust blur intensity to create a softer or sharper look.

Step 5: Import Your Own Image

Many thumbnails include a photo or subject image.

To add your own image:

1. Click Add Image.

2. Select a photo from your computer.

3. The image will appear on the canvas.

After placing the image, you can:

• Resize it

• Move it across the canvas

• Rotate it

• Align it with other elements

This helps highlight the main subject of your thumbnail.

Step 6: Add Text to the Thumbnail

Text helps viewers quickly understand what your video is about.

To add text:

1. Click Add Text in the side panel.

2. Type your title or key message.

You can adjust several text settings:

• Font style

• Font size

• Color

• Alignment

• Position on the canvas

Short, bold titles usually work best for thumbnails.

Step 7: Add Stickers and Graphics

To make your design more eye-catching, you can add graphic elements.

Steps:

1. Click Add Sticker.

2. Browse through the graphic elements.

3. Select a sticker and place it on the canvas.

You can resize or rotate the sticker to fit your layout.

Graphics such as arrows, shapes, or icons can help guide viewer attention.

Step 8: Apply Visual Effects

The app includes visual filters that improve the overall appearance of your thumbnail.

To apply effects:

1. Click Effects in the editing panel.

2. Choose a filter style.

These filters can enhance colors, contrast, and brightness so your thumbnail stands out more clearly.

Step 9: Use Ready-Made Templates

If you choose Pre Designed Templates, you will see a gallery of thumbnail layouts.

These templates include:

• Video titles

• Image placement areas

• Background graphics

To use a template:

1. Select the template you like.

2. Open it in the editor.

3. Replace the sample text with your own video title.

4. Replace the sample image with your own photo.

Templates help speed up the design process.

Step 10: Adjust the Layout

Once all elements are added, arrange them carefully.

You can:

• Move text for better readability

• Adjust image placement

• Resize elements for balance

A clean layout makes the thumbnail easier to understand at a glance.

Step 11: Review the Design

Before saving your thumbnail, review the design.

Check the following:

• Text is large and readable

• Important elements are centered or balanced

• Colors contrast well with the background

• The main subject is clearly visible

Make adjustments if needed.

Step 12: Save the Thumbnail

Once your design is finished:

1. Click Save & Share.

2. Choose where you want to store the file.

The thumbnail will be saved and ready for use.

Step 13: Upload to YouTube

After exporting the thumbnail, you can upload it to your YouTube video.

During video upload on YouTube:

1. Locate the Thumbnail section.

2. Select the image file you created.

3. Upload it to your video.

Your thumbnail will now appear as the preview image for viewers.

Step 14: Continue Editing Later

If you want to work on your design later:

1. Save the project as a draft.

2. Open My Draft from the main screen.

You can reopen and edit your design whenever needed.