Here is how you can create your own app icons yourself! No widget or theme apps required. Just use Canva to create your icons like I did in Part 1. Part 2 coming soon.
1. Go into Canva and create an Instagram Post size canvas.
2. Choose a theme or make your own.
3. Search for icons and brand logos using the Brandhub app or the Elements tab. Some of my icons I had to make myself because I couldn’t find them.
4. Tweak your design and add pages for each app icon you use the most.
5. Save your designs to photos!
I’ll show you in my next post how to make the photos into your new app icons 😁 Let me know if you have questions or need help in creating in Canva!
... Read moreHey everyone! So glad you're here to dive deeper into creating those super cute, custom app icons for your phone. My guide in the main post covered the basics of designing them in Canva, but I know some of you might be wondering about the nitty-gritty details, especially when it comes to getting them ready for your iPhone or Android device, and really making the most of the Canva interface.
First off, let's talk about those Canva interface features. When I'm in the 'Elements' tab, I don't just search for "app icon." I get really specific! For example, if I'm making an icon for a journaling app, I might search for "notebook aesthetic," "minimalist pen," or even "vintage paper clip." Don't be afraid to combine elements! I often layer a simple shape (like a circle or square) with a graphic on top to create a more unique look. The 'Styles' tab, as my screenshots show, is also a game-changer for consistency. If you've got a brand kit set up (even a personal one for your phone's aesthetic!), it's so easy to apply consistent fonts and color palettes across all your icons. This is key for that cohesive aesthetic home screen vibe everyone loves!
Another query I often see is about finding official app icons or logos. The Brandfetch app within Canva is amazing for this, as you saw in my Lemon8 example! But what if Brandfetch doesn't have it, or you want something totally custom? That's where your creativity really shines. I've had to make several custom-made app icons from scratch, like the ones for Storygraph or TikTok, by combining simple shapes, text, and graphics. Think about what the app does or *represents*. For a weather app, you might use a minimalist cloud and sun. For a banking app, a subtle coin or dollar sign. The trick is to keep it simple and recognizable, even if it's not the official logo.
Now, regarding getting these designed icons onto your phone, whether it's an iPhone or an Android, there are a few things to keep in mind, even before my Part 2 post! When you save your designs from Canva, always go for the highest quality PNG option. This ensures your icons look crisp and clear on your screen. While the actual application process differs slightly between iOS (usually via Shortcuts) and Android (often with third-party launcher apps or icon packs), the design principles are similar. You want your icon to be a perfect square. Canva's Instagram Post size (1080x1080px) is great for this! For Canva app icon Android and Canva app icon iOS users, consider how the icon will sit on your grid. Will it have a border? A background shape provided by your launcher? Design with that in mind, or create multiple versions.
I've learned that patience is key. Sometimes I spend 10-15 minutes on a single icon to get it just right! Don't rush the process, and definitely don't be afraid to experiment with different themes and elements. Once you get the hang of using the Canva interface features like the 'Elements' tab for graphics and logos, and saving your designs, you'll be a pro at creating your own unique, aesthetic app icons. Stay tuned for Part 2 where I'll walk you through the exciting final step of actually putting them on your phone!
@Dafoodiebaddie