Thumbnail Maker
High-contrast thumbnails for YouTube & TikTok. Bold headline on a gradient background. 1280×720, one click download.
About the thumbnail maker
A thumbnail is judged in less than a second, at a size smaller than a fingernail. This tool builds a 1280 by 720 image with a short, heavy headline on a gradient background, optionally over your own photo with a darkening layer so the text stays readable. The result is the size YouTube expects and the ratio that also works for most video feeds.
Two or three words in large type almost always beat a sentence. The live preview updates as you type, so you can see exactly where the line breaks fall before downloading — which is far quicker than exporting repeatedly from a full design application.
How to use it
- Write a headline of two to five words. Numbers and result claims tend to perform well.
- Add an optional subtitle such as a date or a short benefit.
- Upload a background photo if you have one, then choose a palette for the gradient version.
- Check the preview at small size, then download the 1280×720 PNG.
FAQ
Will the text be cut off?
Long lines wrap automatically and the font size adapts, but very long headlines become small and defeat the purpose. Keep the headline short for a stronger result.
Can I use this for other platforms?
Yes, the same image works for most video previews. For vertical formats and story sizes, use the social post resizer after exporting.