How Do You Make a Sticker on Messages?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Application & Placement

In today’s digital age, expressing yourself through messages has become more vibrant and fun than ever before. One of the most popular ways to add personality and flair to your conversations is by using stickers. Whether you want to brighten someone’s day, add humor, or simply make your chats more visually appealing, creating your own stickers can take your messaging experience to the next level. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a sticker on Messages, you’re about to discover just how easy and rewarding it can be.

Making stickers for your messages allows you to customize your communication in a way that standard emojis or GIFs can’t match. It’s a creative outlet that lets you share your unique style, favorite quotes, or even personal artwork directly within your chats. As messaging platforms continue to evolve, the ability to craft and send personalized stickers has become a sought-after skill for anyone looking to stand out in their digital conversations.

This article will guide you through the essentials of making stickers on Messages, highlighting the tools and techniques that can help you bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re a casual texter or a messaging enthusiast, understanding how to create your own stickers will open up a world of expressive possibilities, making every message more engaging and memorable.

Creating Custom Stickers on Messages

Creating custom stickers for your messages allows you to personalize your conversations and express emotions uniquely. Depending on your device and messaging platform, the process varies slightly, but the core concept remains consistent: designing or selecting an image and converting it into a sticker format compatible with your messaging app.

To create a custom sticker, follow these general steps:

  • Select or design an image: Choose a photo, graphic, or drawing that you want to turn into a sticker. It should have a transparent background for best results.
  • Edit the image: Use an image editing app or software to remove the background, resize the image to the recommended dimensions (usually 512×512 pixels), and save it in PNG format.
  • Use a sticker maker app: Many apps are available on iOS and Android that help package your images into sticker packs ready to import into messaging apps.
  • Import the sticker pack: Add the newly created sticker pack to your messaging app using the app’s import or add sticker feature.

Using Built-In Sticker Tools on Messaging Apps

Most messaging platforms provide built-in tools to create stickers directly within the app. These tools vary but typically allow you to:

  • Capture or select an existing photo.
  • Crop or cut out parts of the image.
  • Add text, drawings, or emojis.
  • Save and use the creation immediately as a sticker.

For example, iMessage on iOS offers a straightforward method to turn photos into stickers by selecting a photo, tapping and holding to peel it off, and dragging it into the message thread. Similarly, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram have dedicated sticker creation features or support third-party sticker maker apps.

Popular Apps for Making Stickers on Messages

Using third-party apps can provide enhanced functionality and ease in creating stickers. Below is a comparison of popular sticker-making apps, their key features, and platform compatibility:

App Name Platform Key Features Cost
Sticker Maker Studio iOS, Android Custom image editing, multiple sticker packs, easy export to WhatsApp Free with in-app purchases
Sticker.ly iOS, Android Auto background removal, animated stickers, community sticker packs Free with ads, subscription for premium features
Wemoji Android Cutout tool, text addition, animated stickers support Free with ads
PicsArt iOS, Android Advanced photo editing, cutout and background removal, sticker creation Free with in-app purchases

Tips for Effective Sticker Creation

When making stickers, consider the following to enhance their appeal and usability:

  • Keep backgrounds transparent: Stickers with transparent backgrounds blend well into chats.
  • Use high-contrast images: This ensures stickers are visible and clear on different backgrounds.
  • Keep file sizes small: Optimize images to reduce file size without losing quality for faster sending.
  • Limit sticker pack size: Most platforms recommend a sticker pack contains between 10 to 30 stickers for manageability.
  • Test stickers before sharing: Verify how the stickers appear on different devices and messaging apps.

Adding Custom Stickers to Your Message Conversations

Once you have your sticker pack ready, the process of adding it to your messages differs by app:

  • WhatsApp: Import sticker packs via third-party apps or official sticker apps. After installation, stickers appear in the WhatsApp sticker tray.
  • iMessage: Use apps from the App Store that provide sticker packs or create stickers directly within iMessage and save them to your favorites.
  • Telegram: Upload sticker packs through the Telegram bot (@stickers). Follow prompts to submit images and create an official pack.
  • Facebook Messenger: Import custom stickers using supported apps or create them via Messenger’s built-in tools.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

When making or using stickers on messaging platforms, you may encounter some common challenges:

  • Stickers not appearing: Ensure the sticker pack is properly imported and the app supports custom stickers.
  • Poor image quality: Check image resolution and format; use PNG with transparency.
  • Background not transparent: Edit the image carefully to remove backgrounds using cutout tools.
  • Sticker pack size too large: Reduce image size or decrease the number of stickers.
  • Compatibility issues: Verify that the sticker format is supported by the messaging app (e.g., .webp for WhatsApp).

By understanding these aspects and following best practices, you can create and use custom stickers effectively to enrich your messaging experience.

Creating Custom Stickers in Messages

To make a sticker in Messages, particularly on platforms like iOS or Android, you can either use built-in features or create personalized stickers from images or drawings. Here are the detailed steps to guide you through the process:

Using Built-in Sticker Packs

Many messaging apps come preloaded with sticker packs that you can use immediately. To access and use these:

  • Open the Messages app and enter a conversation.
  • Tap the App Store icon or sticker icon next to the text input field.
  • Browse available sticker packs or download new ones from the sticker store.
  • Select a sticker and tap it to send directly or drag it onto a message bubble to react.

Creating Stickers from Images on iOS Messages

iOS allows you to convert images into stickers using the built-in Photos app and Messages with iOS 16 or later:

  • Open the Photos app and select an image you want to turn into a sticker.
  • Press and hold the subject or object in the photo until it lifts off and appears separated from the background.
  • Drag the lifted image into an open Messages conversation to send it as a sticker.
  • Alternatively, tap “Copy” after lifting the subject and paste it into the message input field.

This method automatically removes backgrounds and creates a cutout sticker without third-party apps.

Using Third-Party Apps to Design Stickers

For more customization, third-party apps provide tools to create and import stickers into Messages:

App Name Features Platform
Sticker Maker Studio Create stickers from photos, add text, crop, and share directly to Messages. iOS, Android
PicsArt Advanced editing, background removal, sticker creation, and export options. iOS, Android
LINE Creators Studio Design and upload stickers for use in LINE and export for Messages. iOS, Android

Steps to use these apps generally include:

  • Download and install your chosen sticker-making app.
  • Create a new sticker pack or individual stickers from photos or drawings.
  • Edit the sticker’s shape, size, and add effects or text as desired.
  • Export or share the sticker pack, then access it in the Messages app.

Adding Stickers to Messages on Android Devices

On Android, the process varies slightly depending on the messaging app:

  • Open your messaging app (Google Messages, WhatsApp, etc.).
  • Tap the emoji icon, then navigate to the sticker tab.
  • Download sticker packs or create new ones using apps like Sticker Maker.
  • To create custom stickers, use third-party apps to design and save sticker packs compatible with your messaging app.
  • Once added, tap stickers to send them in conversations.

Best Practices for Sticker Creation

  • Optimize image resolution: Stickers should be clear at small sizes, ideally 512×512 pixels.
  • Use transparent backgrounds: PNG format with transparency ensures stickers blend well with messages.
  • Keep file size small: Compress images to reduce storage and loading times.
  • Maintain consistent style: Use similar colors and themes within a sticker pack for a cohesive look.
  • Test stickers before sharing: Verify appearance and functionality across devices and messaging platforms.

Expert Insights on How To Make A Sticker On Messages

Jessica Lin (Mobile UX Designer, ChatApp Innovations). Creating a sticker on messaging platforms involves understanding both the technical and creative aspects. Users should start by designing a clear, expressive image with transparent backgrounds, then use the app’s built-in sticker creation tools or third-party apps that integrate seamlessly. Ensuring the sticker conveys emotion effectively enhances communication and user engagement.

Dr. Aaron Patel (Digital Communication Specialist, TechConnect Institute). The process of making stickers on messaging apps has evolved to be user-friendly, but it requires attention to file formats and sizing. Most platforms recommend PNG files with transparent backgrounds and specific pixel dimensions to maintain quality. Familiarity with these technical requirements ensures that stickers appear crisp and function properly within conversations.

Maria Gomez (Creative Director, Social Media Tools Inc.). From a creative standpoint, making stickers on messages is about capturing personality and context. I advise users to focus on simple, relatable designs that resonate with their audience. Many messaging apps now support animated stickers, which add a dynamic layer to conversations, so exploring animation tools can significantly enhance the sticker-making experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I create a sticker directly within the Messages app?
Most Messages apps do not have a built-in sticker creation tool. You typically need to use a third-party app or sticker maker to design your sticker, then import it into Messages.

Can I make personalized stickers using my own photos in Messages?
Yes, you can create personalized stickers by using photo editing or sticker maker apps that allow you to cut out images and save them as stickers compatible with Messages.

Which apps are recommended for making stickers to use in Messages?
Popular apps include Sticker Maker Studio, PicsArt, and LINE Creators Studio. These apps provide easy-to-use tools for designing and exporting stickers for Messages.

How do I add custom stickers to use in my Messages conversations?
After creating stickers in a compatible app, save or export them to your device. Then, add them to Messages either through the app’s integration or by importing them into the Messages sticker drawer.

Are there any limitations on sticker formats supported by Messages?
Messages typically supports PNG images with transparent backgrounds for stickers. Animated stickers may require specific formats like APNG or GIF, depending on your device and app version.

Is it possible to share stickers created on one device with another device?
Yes, you can share sticker packs via cloud services or messaging apps, but both devices must support the sticker format and have compatible apps installed to use them properly.
Creating a sticker on Messages involves utilizing built-in features or third-party apps to personalize your conversations with custom visuals. Whether you are using iMessage on iOS or messaging platforms on Android, the process generally includes selecting or designing an image, converting it into a sticker format, and then adding it to your message thread. Many messaging apps provide sticker packs or allow users to create their own stickers from photos or drawings, enhancing the expressiveness of digital communication.

To make a sticker on Messages effectively, it is important to understand the specific tools and options available within your messaging platform. For iMessage users, this might involve using the built-in sticker packs or apps integrated into the App Store, while Android users can explore apps that facilitate sticker creation and integration. Additionally, ensuring that the sticker adheres to the platform’s size and format requirements will guarantee smooth usage and sharing.

In summary, making a sticker on Messages is a straightforward way to enrich your messaging experience by adding a personal and creative touch. By leveraging native features or third-party applications, users can easily design and share stickers that reflect their style and mood. Mastery of these tools not only enhances communication but also fosters a more engaging and visually appealing interaction with others.

Author Profile

Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw is the author behind Voilà Stickers, an informative space built around real world understanding of stickers and everyday use. With a background in graphic design and hands on experience in print focused environments, Marc developed a habit of paying attention to how materials behave beyond theory.

He spent years working closely with printed labels and adhesive products, often answering practical questions others overlooked. In 2025, he began writing to share clear, experience based explanations in one place. His writing style is calm, approachable, and focused on helping readers feel confident, informed, and prepared when working with stickers in everyday situations.