How to Make an Overlay for your Twitch Channel

If you are into video games, you may be aware of the Twitch streamers that capture more followers. One of the important foundations that elevates these channels is the effort they put into creating an online appearance that stands out. If you are looking to draw an interest to your twitch channel by captivating more gamers, add a personal touch with an overlay.

In this article we will show you how to do that the easy way.

There are several online design tools to assist you with creating eye catching designs without any background or skills needed.

What makes a good overlay?

The best overlays include design elements unique to your channel or brand. Not sure where to start? Look at your favorite twitch streamers and capture what really attracts you to their stream. Don’t copy them, but add your own personal touch and customization such as:

• Base design- every design starts with a blank canvas. The size of your overlay canvas is important and unique to each graphic element. Twitch panels should be 1000 width X 300 height
• Color scheme- bright, colorful overlay to entice energetic streamers
• Simple schemes- if you are a no-nonsense broadcaster
• Mascot logo
• Stream information- such as social media, handles or sponsors
• Changing overlays based off the games you are creating

Experimenting with settings and options will help you find the perfect profile for your stream. Just like in life, every broadcaster is unique. Some prefer a complex or vibrant feel, while others may choose a more subtle approach. Any preference is acceptable based of your own unique need for your channel.

What makes an overlay stand out?

When creating your own overlays, customize it to stand out for your unique stream. Some suggestions to follow:

• Stick to your brand: Keep the colors, font, and imagery uniform
• Keep it simple and uncluttered. Don’t add too many elements. Less is more
• Ensure it improves the streaming experience for your audience
• Make sure every element serves a clear purpose
• The image should be transparent
• Include a chat box
• Along with the actual stream, Create a webcam view

Top free websites to create Twitch overlays

Are you looking for free twitch overlays to improve your twitch channel? Below are some of the top online sources to help you get started.

StreamElements
A top web-based platform that offers streamers customization options to add to their streams. There is a large library of online templates you can customize for your channel. This site is free and easy to use following these steps:

1. Register for StreamElements
2. Connect StreamElements to your Twitch account
3. Select the channel you want to create
4. Go to theme gallery- choose a theme and click create
5. Enter an overlay name and create overlay
6. You will be directed to the overlay section to edit your chosen template
7. Once you customize, you can add the overlay to your stream

OvrStream
offers some free twitch overlays and animated scenes. This platform is more complex than some other platforms, but it does include many great options to help your twitch channel stand out.

1. Create an account for free
2. Windows only application can be downloaded to your desktop
3. Connect to your twitch channel
4. Choose your overlay and customize
5. Set your customized overlay scene on your live stream

Rainmaker
Offer a user-friendly drag and drop overlay that is easily customizable. Rainmaker is another great free option for creating overlays that will advance your twitch channel to the next level.

1. Great for beginners
2. Drag and drop overlay builder
3. Create quick, professional overlays

By creating a customized overlay, you can stream like a pro, attract new visitors, and make a great first impression on your twitch channel today. There are many sites available to assist you with creating a unique design. Take the time to review a few we provided to find the one that best suites the needs of your channel.