How to Make a Custom Sticker on WhatsApp

Gone are the days when you needed a third-party "Sticker Maker" app that flooded your phone with ads just to turn your dog’s face into a meme. In 2026, WhatsApp has fully integrated professional-level sticker creation directly into the app for iOS, Android, and Desktop.

Whether you want to lift a subject from a photo, turn a text into an AI-generated masterpiece, or simply doodle on a screenshot, here is how to make a custom sticker on WhatsApp perfectly.

Method 1: Using the Built-In Sticker Maker (Mobile)

As of the latest iOS 26 and Android 14+ updates, WhatsApp allows you to create stickers directly from your chat bar. This is the fastest method for daily use.

Steps for iOS and Android:

1. Open any chat and tap the Emoji/Sticker icon in the message bar.

2. Switch to the Sticker tab (the square icon with a folded corner).

3. Tap the "+" (Create) button.

4. Select a photo from your gallery.

5. Edit your sticker: * WhatsApp will automatically attempt to remove the background (on supported devices).

   • Use the toolbar to add text, draw with a brush, or place emojis on top.

6. Hit Send. Your new creation is now saved in your "Recents" and can be added to your "Favorites" by tapping it.

Method 2: The "Drag and Drop" Magic (iPhone Only)

If you are an iPhone user, you can use the system-level "Visual Look Up" feature to create a sticker in seconds without even opening the sticker menu.

• Open your Photos app and find the image you want.

• Long-press on the subject (a person, pet, or object). You will see a shimmering white outline.

• Keep your finger on the subject and use your other hand to swipe up and open WhatsApp.

• Drop the subject into any chat. WhatsApp will ask: "Would you like to convert this image to a sticker?"

• Tap Send.

Method 3: Generating AI Stickers

One of the standout features of 2026 is the integration of generative AI. If you can’t find the right photo, you can simply describe what you want.

1. Tap the Sticker icon > Create.

2. Select Generate with AI.

3. Type a prompt (e.g., "A cat wearing a space helmet eating pizza").

4. WhatsApp will generate four options. Tap your favorite to send it instantly.

Comparison of Sticker Creation Methods

Pro Tips for Better Stickers

• Background Removal: For the cleanest look, use photos with high contrast between the subject and the background. Busy backgrounds can lead to "messy" edges.

• Text Visibility: If you add text, use a bold font with a contrasting color (e.g., white text with a black outline) so it’s readable in both Light and Dark mode.

• Sizing: Don't crowd your sticker with too much detail. Stickers are small; a close-up of a face usually works better than a full-body shot.

Summary: Managing Your Collection

Once you’ve learned how to make a custom sticker on WhatsApp, your "Favorites" tab can get cluttered. You can manage this by tapping and holding any sticker in your tray to Remove from Favorites or Edit Sticker if you want to tweak a previous design.

Creating stickers is no longer a technical chore—it's a way to make your conversations feel more personal and, frankly, a lot more fun.