Can you create custom cover images in Notion?

Yes, you can create custom cover images in Notion, and the process offers several practical options for personalizing your workspace. While Notion doesn't provide built-in image editing tools, you can upload your own images, use the integrated Unsplash library, select from Notion's gallery, or paste direct image links to create distinctive page headers that reflect your style and organization needs.

The process itself is straightforward and takes just a few steps. Open your Notion page and click "Add Cover" near the top, then select "Change Cover" to replace any default image. You can choose from Notion's built-in gallery, upload your own JPG or PNG file, paste an image link, or browse Unsplash's extensive photo collection. Once you've added your cover, you can reposition it by hovering over the image, selecting "Reposition," and dragging to set which part remains visible in the banner format.

For truly custom designs, you'll want to create your images externally using tools like Canva or specialized Notion cover generators. The optimal dimensions are 1500×600 pixels with a 5:2 aspect ratio, and keeping your file size under 150 KB ensures fast loading. When designing, focus on placing key visual elements in the center region since Notion displays only a narrow slice of your image in most views, and the visible area varies between desktop and mobile devices.

However, there are some limitations to consider. Notion's banner format means your full image won't always be visible—only a cropped portion appears depending on the device and view. You can't edit images directly within Notion, so any adjustments need to happen before upload. Additionally, the repositioning feature helps optimize what's visible, but it can't overcome poor initial design choices or images that don't work well in a banner format.

Custom covers significantly enhance your workspace's professional appearance and help create visual consistency across your pages. The key is designing with Notion's constraints in mind—keeping important elements centered, using appropriate dimensions, and testing how your covers look across different devices. While the process requires some external preparation, the result is a more engaging and personalized Notion experience that reflects your unique style and organizational approach.