Mastodon Header Maker
Design a profile header at Mastodon's documented 1500 × 500 size. Add a title and your photo, and download a file that stays under the 2 MB upload limit.
Preview at 1500 × 500.
Auto picks the biggest size that fits. Choose a number for exact control, from 12 to 600 px.
Your photo stays on this device. It is never uploaded.
A short video ad plays first, and your download starts as soon as it ends. That is how this tool stays free.
Mastodon header size
| Size | 1500 × 500 px. Mastodon documents that header uploads are scaled to this. |
|---|---|
| Aspect ratio | 3:1 |
| File types | WEBP, PNG, GIF, or JPG |
| File size | Up to 2 MB |
| Good to know | Different servers and apps can crop the header slightly differently. |
Because Mastodon is made of many independent servers and apps, treat 1500 × 500 as a design target, not a promise that every viewer sees the same crop.
How to make a Mastodon header
- Type a short line that says what your account is about, such as a topic, a hobby, or your work.
- Choose a background. If you add a photo, try Round photo on the right so the left side stays free for your avatar.
- Keep the format on JPG for a small file, or switch to PNG if you want sharper text and your file is still under 2 MB.
- Click Download Mastodon header. A short video ad plays, then the file downloads.
- On the Mastodon website, open Preferences, then Public profile, and upload the file under Header. Other apps put the same option under Edit profile.
Design tips for a Mastodon header
- Write plainly. People often land on a profile after one boosted post, so a header that states your topic helps them decide to follow.
- Keep it static and simple. Detail near the edges gets trimmed in some apps.
- Leave room for the avatar. It overlaps the lower-left area on many layouts.
- Match the mood of your server or your brand. A clean header looks better than a busy one at small sizes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Mastodon header size?
Mastodon scales headers to 1500 × 500 pixels, a 3:1 shape. Uploads can be up to 2 MB in WEBP, PNG, GIF, or JPG.
Can I make an animated Mastodon header here?
No. This tool makes still images only (PNG or JPG). A still header also looks the same in every app, which is why many people prefer it.
Why has my new header not changed everywhere?
Other servers keep their own copies of profile images, so a new header can take a while to show up on accounts that follow you elsewhere.
Does it work for any Mastodon server?
Yes. The size comes from Mastodon itself, so it works on the big servers and on small self-hosted ones. Your instance admin can change limits, so check your own server if an upload is refused.