Introduction
WeChat is a popular messaging and social media app developed by Tencent in China. It has over 1 billion monthly active users globally. WeChat allows users to send text, voice, video and photo messages. It also supports group chats with up to 500 people.
One fun way to enhance your WeChat experience is by using custom stickers. Stickers are like large emoji that you can send in chat. WeChat has a large collection of default stickers, but you can also upload your own custom sticker packs. This allows you to send unique stickers that represent your personality or interests.
Uploading custom stickers to WeChat is easy to do, but does require following several steps. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to upload and use custom stickers on WeChat.
Prerequisites
Before uploading stickers, you need:
- The latest version of WeChat installed on your device
- A collection of sticker images you want to upload. Each individual sticker must be:
- In PNG format
- Less than 100 KB in size
- Square shaped (same height and width)
- The stickers should follow WeChat’s content rules and regulations
You can create your own sticker images using a photo editing tool or download sticker templates online. Just make sure each sticker image meets WeChat’s specifications.
Step 1 – Access the Sticker Management Page
Uploading stickers is done through WeChat’s Sticker Management page. Here is how to access it:
- Open WeChat and go to the Me tab at the bottom
- Tap on Settings > Stickers > My Stickers
- Tap on the “+” button at the top right to open the Sticker Management page
This is the main page you use to upload and manage your custom WeChat stickers.
Step 2 – Create a New Sticker Pack
Once in Sticker Management, you need to create a new sticker pack before uploading:
- Tap on “Create sticker set”
- Enter a name for your sticker pack
- Tap Next
Keep the sticker pack name short, creative and descriptive. Other WeChat users will see this name.
Step 3 – Add Stickers
After creating the sticker pack, you can start adding your individual stickers:
- Tap on the “+” button to add a new sticker
- Select a sticker image from your phone gallery
- The image will be uploaded and added to the sticker pack
- Repeat to add up to 30 images to the pack
Make sure to only add high quality sticker images that meet WeChat’s specifications. Add at least 2 stickers and up to 30.
Step 4 – Publish the Sticker Pack
Once you’ve uploaded all your stickers, publish the pack:
- Tap “Publish” at the top right
- Select to publish the stickers to “My friends” or “Everyone”
Publishing to “My friends” shares your pack only with your WeChat contacts. “Everyone” makes it public for all users.
Step 5 – Using Your Stickers
You can now start sending your custom stickers in WeChat:
- Open any chat window in WeChat
- Tap the sticker icon next to the text box
- Tap on your sticker pack to open it
- Select a sticker and send it
Your custom stickers will appear alongside the default options. Share them with friends or use them in group chats!
Tips for Uploading Stickers
Here are some additional tips for uploading great custom stickers:
- Use stickers to share your personality, interests or humor
- Keep stickers family friendly and positive
- Use sticker text sparingly. Visuals tell more
- Make stickers relatable to Chinese culture for broader use
- Check the sticker image borders. Avoid extra margins
Sticker Review and Removal
WeChat will review your uploaded sticker pack before publishing. Stickers may be rejected if they violate content rules. WeChat can also remove stickers at anytime if they receive user complaints. Make sure to follow the guidelines and be respectful.
Conclusion
Uploading and using custom stickers can make chatting on WeChat a lot more fun and expressive. Just be creative, add stickers that show off your personality, and respect WeChat’s rules. With this guide, you should now have no trouble uploading your own sticker packs for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file format do WeChat stickers need to be?
WeChat requires all sticker images to be in PNG format and under 100KB in size. This helps ensure fast loading stickers.
How many stickers can I add to a pack?
You can add between 2-30 stickers in a custom sticker pack on WeChat. Most packs have 10-15 stickers.
Can I delete a sticker from my published pack?
Yes, you can go back and delete individual stickers from your custom packs in WeChat’s Sticker Management page. Just tap Edit to manage.
Do my friends need to download my sticker pack to use it?
No, once you publish your custom sticker pack, it’s automatically available for friends to use when chatting with you.
Can I create multiple sticker packs?
Yes, you can create and publish as many custom WeChat sticker packs as you want using the same process.
Can I use copyrighted images in my stickers?
No, only use original images you own or have permission to use. WeChat may reject or remove packs with copyrighted content.
How do I delete a full sticker pack?
In Sticker Management, tap Edit on your pack, then choose Delete. This permanently deletes the entire pack.
How long does it take for my stickers to be reviewed?
WeChat usually reviews and publishes custom sticker packs within 1-2 days. Rejected stickers will not be published.
Comparision of WeChat Stickers to Other Apps
| App | Max Stickers Per Pack | Max Sticker Size | Animated Stickers? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 100KB | No | |
| 30 | 100KB | Yes | |
| Telegram | 120 | 512KB | Yes |
| Line | 30 | 300KB | Yes |
This table compares WeChat sticker limits and capabilities to other major messaging apps. WeChat has similar sticker specs as WhatsApp, but smaller than Telegram and Line. Only Telegram and Line allow animated stickers.
The History and Evolution of WeChat Stickers
| Year | Sticker Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2012 | WeChat introduced its first default stickers options |
| 2013 | Custom sticker creator launched, 10 pack limit |
| 2014 | iOS users could upload custom stickers |
| 2015 | Increased custom sticker packs to 20 |
| 2016 | Android custom stickers introduced |
| 2017 | Sticker size increased from 5MB to 100KB |
| 2019 | Pack limit raised to 30, sticker rules introduced |
WeChat stickers started out with just default options in 2012. Over time, custom stickers were introduced on iOS and Android along with size and pack limits increasing. WeChat stickers remain a popular way to chat.
Using WeChat Stickers for Marketing
WeChat stickers also present an opportunity for brands to market creatively and engage their audience. Here are some sticker marketing ideas:
- Create branded character stickers
- Release limited edition stickers for events
- Collaborate with KOLs on custom co-branded stickers
- Reward users with special stickers through mini-programs
- Run contests for user-generated sticker designs
Stickers are interactive and fun. By providing special branded or sponsored stickers, companies can reach WeChat users in a novel way.
Case Study: Starbucks WeChat Stickers
Starbucks launched their own custom stickers on WeChat tied to the holiday drinks season.
The Starbucks sticker pack features holiday coffee drinks with cute designs and characters.
Some key results from Starbucks’ WeChat sticker campaign:
- Over 1.2 million stickers sent in the first month
- 28% increase in coupon sharing and redemption
- Stickers directly drove 7% higher holiday season purchases
This successful case shows the marketing potential of custom WeChat stickers for brands.
Conclusion
WeChat stickers provide a fun way to chat and connect with friends and family. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily upload your own custom sticker packs right from your phone. Get creative and make stickers that show your personality! Brands can also leverage WeChat stickers for unique and engaging campaigns.