Step 1

Grab yourself Paint.net [​download link]: a free, lightweight & simple image editing program.



Step 2

Create a new image in Paint.net (crtl+n) with a size of 1070x275 pixels, this is the size of Planet Minecraft's popular reel and making a banner in this size gives you a chance to be featured on there!

Grab the image below for the correct size:



Step 3

Give your banner a background. You could make a gradient with Paint.net's gradient tool.



OR you could grab a free stock image off the internet, make sure to check the terms of use!

Gradient example:	Stock image example:

Step 4

Go to textcraft.net and design your contest title (+sub-titles) for free!



Step 5

Add elements as layers on top of your banner background in Paint.net.



You can add the title you made in textcraft, extra pictures, and extra text with Paint.net's text tool.





Step 6

Save your banner image and upload it to the internet! You can host your image on imgur.com which is a free site.
You do need to make an account to do so!






Step 7

Insert your image on your PMC contest/event forum post [​create new!].

Right-click > Copy image address:



Then use the Insert / Edit Media button on your PMC text editor, like so:



Done!



Also read:10 Steps to organizing a successful contest on PMC!