If you are new: You need one square image before directories will accept your show. It does not need a designer on day one—Canva or Figma templates work if text stays big and bold.
Do this first
- Use your show name (or clear logo) in fewer than six words—listeners see a tiny icon on phones.
- Export a large square master (aim for 3000×3000 px); your host will tell you if they need JPEG or PNG.
- Shrink a preview to 64×64 px—if you cannot read it, simplify the design.
Cover art is your thumbnail everywhere listeners browse. Apple and Spotify both expect a large square master; tiny exports look soft on retina screens and TV apps.
Pixel size and format
Work in a 3000×3000 px (or larger) square master at 72 dpi or higher, then export the PNG or JPEG your host requires. Avoid non-square artwork—directories crop unpredictably.
Use sRGB color. Keep text and logos inside a safe margin (~5–10% inset) because some UIs round corners or overlay badges.
Readability at small sizes
Shrink your design to 64×64 px in the preview. If the title disappears, simplify: fewer words, bolder type, higher contrast. Avoid thin fonts and busy photos behind small type.
One master, one export pipeline
Design once in vector or high-res PSD, then export sizes your host, YouTube, and social templates need. Do not hand-edit ten different JPEGs by hand each season—you will drift off-brand.
Common mistakes
Copyrighted photos you do not license, unreadable season numbers, and seasonal art that dates the feed for years. If you run “Season 4” on the image, plan to update when seasons change.
Related reading
Cubecast blog for distribution and RSS basics.
Next step
Host your show with clear specs and a stable feed URL.