How to add text to an image using Canva on a phone

3–4 minutes

Today, we’re going to show you how to add text to an image using Canva on your phone. Canva’s mobile app is powerful and easy to use, perfect for designing on the go. Whether you’re creating content for social media, marketing materials, or personal projects, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Download the Canva App

First, you need to download the Canva app from the App Store (for iOS users) or Google Play Store (for Android users). It’s free to download, and there are plenty of features available without needing a paid subscription.

Step 2: Create a New Design

Open the Canva app and sign in to your account. If you don’t have an account, you can easily create one for free. Tap the “+” button at the bottom right corner of the screen to start a new design. You can choose from various preset dimensions, such as Instagram posts, Facebook covers, or custom dimensions if you have specific size requirements.

Step 3: Upload Your Image

With your new project open, it’s time to add your image. Tap on the “+” button again and select “Gallery” to upload an image from your phone. Choose the image you want to use, and it will be added to your canvas. Resize and position the image as needed by pinching and dragging.

Step 4: Add Text to Your Image

I like to add a shape in front of the image and play with the opacity of it to give my text more contrast and some personality to the design. You can use any color on your shape.

To add text, tap the “+” button once more and select “Text.” You’ll see options to add a heading, subheading, or body text. Choose the one that fits your needs. A text box will appear on your canvas. Tap the text box and start typing your message.

Step 5: Customize Your Text

With the text box selected, you can customize your text to make it look just right:

  • Font: Tap on the font name to choose from a wide range of fonts.
  • Size: Adjust the font size by dragging the size slider.
  • Color: Tap the color button to choose a color from the palette or use the color picker for a custom shade.
  • Alignment: Select from left, center, or right alignment options.
  • Effects: Add effects like shadows, outlines, or transparency to make your text stand out.

Step 6: Position and Adjust

Drag the text box to position it exactly where you want on your image. You can also rotate the text by using the rotation handle. Canva’s mobile app provides alignment guides to help you place your text perfectly.

Step 7: Fine-Tuning

Pinch to zoom in and out to ensure your text looks good at different sizes. Make any final adjustments to the font, size, color, or position until you’re satisfied with the result.

Step 8: Save and Share

Once you’re happy with your design, tap the download icon at the top right corner. Choose your preferred file format (like PNG or JPG) and tap “Download.” Your image with text is now saved to your phone, ready to be shared on social media, added to your website, or sent to friends.

Tips for Better Designs

  • Contrast is Key: Ensure your text color contrasts well with your image background for better readability.
  • Less is More: Keep your text concise and to the point. Too much text can make your design look cluttered.
  • Play with Fonts: Experiment with different fonts to find the perfect match for your design’s style and message.

And that’s it! Adding text to an image using Canva on your phone is simple and fun. We hope this guide helps you create stunning designs on the go. Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below. Happy designing!