Designing an Instagram Story
Stories are fast, bold and vertical
An Instagram story is a full-screen 9:16 image that appears for 24 hours. Stories are scanned in seconds, so the design needs one clear message, huge text and plenty of breathing room.
Choose the right size
Create a design with Story (1080 x 1920) selected. Canva has this size built in - tap Create a design and choose it.
Respect the safe area
The very top of a story is covered by your profile name, and the bottom by the reply box and buttons. Keep text and key elements inside the centre safe area - roughly the middle two thirds of the screen.
One message, big type
Pick ONE message: a sale, an announcement, a question. Make it the biggest element. Add a small line of supporting text, and your handle or logo small at the top or bottom of the safe area.
Make it move
Canva stories support animated stickers and effects that give the image life. Free accounts have a selection of animated elements - add one for extra attention, but keep the message the star.
Tip: View your story design at full size in your gallery and hold the phone at arm's length. If you can still read the message, it works.
Warning: Avoid putting important text in the top and bottom corners of a story - platform buttons and your name will cover them.
Practical exercise
Create a story:
- Create a Story (1080 x 1920) design
- Add one big message and one small supporting line
- Keep everything inside the centre safe area
- Add your handle or logo small
Check your understanding
What size is an Instagram story? 1080 x 1920 (9:16).Why keep content in the centre safe area? The top and bottom are covered by your name and platform buttons.How many messages should a story carry? One clear message.
Answer the questions out loud or on paper. If any are hard, re-read this lesson before moving on.
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