Skip to Content

How to Create a Pictogram in Canva

How to Create a Pictogram in Canva

Canva Templates is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more


Canva is a popular graphic design tool that allows users to create a wide range of visual content, including pictograms. Pictograms are simple, easily recognizable symbols that can be used to convey information quickly and effectively. They are commonly used in infographics, presentations, reports, and other design projects.

Creating a pictogram in Canva is a straightforward process that requires no prior design experience. Users can choose from a variety of customizable templates or create a pictogram from scratch using Canva’s extensive library of graphic elements. Canva’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to add text, shapes, and other design elements to the pictogram to create a unique and visually appealing design.

Whether you are a professional designer or a beginner, Canva provides a user-friendly platform for creating high-quality pictograms. With its extensive library of graphic elements, customizable templates, and intuitive interface, Canva is a powerful tool for creating effective visual content. In the following sections, we will explore the step-by-step process for creating a pictogram in Canva.

Understanding Pictograms

Pictograms are visual representations of data that use symbols or icons to convey information. They are a simple and effective way to communicate complex information quickly and easily. Pictograms are often used in infographics, reports, and presentations to make data more visually appealing and engaging.

In Canva, there are many different types of pictograms that users can choose from. These include icons, symbols, and illustrations that can be customized to fit the needs of the user. Users can also change the color, size, and orientation of the pictograms to match their branding or design aesthetic.

One of the benefits of using pictograms is that they can be easily understood by people who speak different languages or have different levels of literacy. This makes them a useful tool for communicating information to a diverse audience. Pictograms can also be used to create a sense of continuity and consistency in a design, which can help to reinforce branding and messaging.

Overall, pictograms are a versatile and effective way to communicate information visually. Whether you are creating an infographic, report, or presentation, using pictograms can help to make your data more engaging and accessible to your audience.

Getting Started with Canva

Canva is an intuitive and user-friendly online graphic design tool that allows users to create professional-looking designs without any prior design experience. Here are a few steps to get started with Canva:

  1. Create an account: To start using Canva, users need to create an account. This can be done by visiting the Canva website and clicking on the “Sign up” button. Users can sign up using their email address or by linking their Google or Facebook accounts.

  2. Choose a template: Once users have created an account, they can choose a template to start their design project. Canva offers a wide range of templates for various types of designs, such as social media posts, flyers, posters, and more. Users can also create a design from scratch.

  3. Customize the design: After selecting a template, users can customize it by adding text, images, shapes, and other design elements. Canva offers a variety of design tools, such as color palettes, font styles, and filters, to help users create a unique and visually appealing design.

Overall, Canva is a great tool for those who want to create professional-looking designs without any design experience. With its user-friendly interface and wide range of templates and design tools, users can create stunning designs in just a few clicks.

Creating a New Design in Canva

When creating a pictogram in Canva, the first step is to create a new design. Here are the steps to follow:

Choosing a Template

Canva offers a variety of templates to choose from. To create a pictogram, select the “Graphs” option from the left-hand menu and choose “Pictograms”. This will display a range of pictogram templates to choose from.

Setting Up Your Canvas

Once you have selected a template, you can customize it to fit your needs. First, set the canvas size by clicking on the “Resize” button located at the top of the screen. This will allow you to adjust the dimensions of your design to fit your needs.

Next, add your own images, icons, and text to the design by using the tools located on the left-hand side of the screen. You can also change the colors and fonts used in the design to match your brand or project.

Finally, save your design by clicking on the “Download” button located at the top of the screen. You can choose to save your design in a variety of formats, including PNG, JPG, and PDF.

By following these simple steps, you can create a professional-looking pictogram in Canva that effectively communicates your message.

Designing Your Pictogram

When designing a pictogram in Canva, there are several key elements to consider. These include adding shapes, customizing colors, and adding text. By utilizing these tools effectively, you can create a visually appealing and informative pictogram.

Adding Shapes

The first step in designing your pictogram is to add shapes. Canva offers a wide variety of shapes to choose from, including circles, squares, triangles, and more. To add a shape, simply click on the “Elements” tab in the left-hand menu and select the shape you want to use. Once you have added your shape, you can resize it, rotate it, and adjust its position as needed.

Customizing Colors

After adding your shapes, you can customize their colors to match your branding or design preferences. Canva offers a range of color options, including solid colors, gradients, and patterns. To change the color of a shape, simply click on it and then select the “Fill” option in the top toolbar. From there, you can choose your desired color or pattern.

Adding Text

In addition to shapes and colors, you may also want to add text to your pictogram. This can help to provide additional context or information. To add text, simply click on the “Text” tab in the left-hand menu and select the type of text box you want to use. From there, you can type in your text and adjust the font, size, and color as needed.

By following these steps, you can create a professional-looking pictogram in Canva that effectively communicates your message. Remember to keep your design simple and easy to understand, and use colors and text sparingly to avoid overwhelming your audience.

Saving and Exporting Your Pictogram

After creating a pictogram in Canva, it is important to save and export it properly so that you can use it for your desired purpose. This section will guide you through the steps of previewing, saving, and exporting your pictogram.

Previewing Your Pictogram

Before saving and exporting your pictogram, it is important to preview it to ensure that it looks the way you want it to. To preview your pictogram, simply click the “Preview” button located at the top right corner of the Canva editor. This will give you a full-screen view of your pictogram, allowing you to see it in its entirety.

Saving Your Design

Canva has two options for saving your pictogram: automatic saving and manual saving. With automatic saving, your design will be saved to your Canva profile every few seconds. This is a great option if you want to make sure that your design is always up-to-date and backed up in the cloud. Manual saving, on the other hand, allows you to save your design at any time by clicking the “Save” button located at the top right corner of the Canva editor.

Exporting Your Pictogram

Once you have previewed and saved your pictogram, it is time to export it. Canva allows you to export your design in a variety of formats, including PNG, JPG, PDF, and SVG. To export your pictogram, simply click the “Download” button located at the top right corner of the Canva editor and select the desired file format. You can also adjust the size and quality of your export by selecting the appropriate options in the export settings.

In conclusion, previewing, saving, and exporting your pictogram in Canva is a simple process that can be done in just a few clicks. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pictogram looks great and is ready to be used for your desired purpose.

Tips for Creating Effective Pictograms

Creating an effective pictogram can be tricky, but with a few tips, anyone can create a visually appealing and informative image. Here are some tips for creating effective pictograms in Canva:

Keeping It Simple

The most effective pictograms are simple and easy to understand. Avoid cluttering the image with too much detail or text. Instead, focus on creating a clear and concise image that conveys the intended message. Use simple shapes and symbols to represent the information being conveyed.

Using Consistent Design Elements

Consistency is key when it comes to creating an effective pictogram. Use consistent design elements, such as colors, fonts, and shapes, throughout the image. This will help to create a cohesive and visually appealing image. Additionally, using consistent design elements will make it easier for the viewer to understand the information being conveyed.

Considering Your Audience

When creating a pictogram, it’s important to consider the audience who will be viewing it. Consider the age, culture, and education level of the audience. This will help to ensure that the pictogram is easily understood and relatable to the viewer. For example, if the pictogram is intended for a younger audience, use bright colors and simple shapes to make it more engaging.

By keeping it simple, using consistent design elements, and considering the audience, anyone can create an effective pictogram in Canva. Remember to keep the message clear and concise, and use design elements that are visually appealing and easy to understand.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Creating a pictogram in Canva is a straightforward process, but sometimes issues may arise. This section will look at some of the most common problems that users may encounter and how to resolve them.

Resolving Design Errors

If you’re experiencing design errors while creating a pictogram in Canva, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, check that you’re using the latest version of Canva, as outdated software can sometimes cause issues. If that doesn’t work, try clearing your browser cache and cookies and restarting your computer. If you’re still experiencing problems, reach out to Canva’s support team for assistance.

Dealing with Saving Issues

Saving issues can be frustrating, especially if you’ve spent a lot of time creating your pictogram. If you’re having trouble saving your design, ensure that you have a stable internet connection. If your internet connection is fine, try logging out of Canva and logging back in. If you’re still having problems, try using a different browser or device. If none of these solutions work, reach out to Canva’s support team for assistance.

Addressing Export Problems

Exporting your pictogram is the final step in the design process. If you’re experiencing issues when exporting your design, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, ensure that your design is saved in the correct file format. Canva supports a variety of file formats, including PNG, JPG, and PDF. If you’re still having problems, try exporting your design in a different file format. If you’re still experiencing issues, reach out to Canva’s support team for assistance.

In conclusion, while creating a pictogram in Canva is relatively easy, issues can still arise. By following the troubleshooting tips outlined in this section, users can resolve the most common problems and create their pictograms with ease.