Discord emojis, emotes and stickers: formats, uploads and fixes
Prepare a Discord sticker or custom emoji, check file requirements, troubleshoot upload errors, and write useful descriptions for your artwork.
Reviewed . We update this guide when platform requirements change; check the official sources before uploading.
Emojis, emotes and stickers: what is the difference?
Emoji is Discord's name for the small expressions used in messages and reactions. People often call custom emojis emotes; it usually means the same thing in a server discussion. Stickers are larger expressions sent as messages. Animated emojis and animated stickers are separate features with their own file and account requirements.
Choose an emoji or a sticker
Use an emoji when a small symbol needs to fit alongside text or serve as a reaction. A sticker is a larger standalone expression, so a clear silhouette and one readable idea work better than a busy scene. For example, a simple waving mascot can communicate a greeting without putting an entire sentence inside the artwork. Start with your own drawing or artwork you have permission to adapt.
Prepare a sticker file
Discord's creator guidance lists PNG for still images and APNG or GIF for animation, with a 512 KB maximum and a 320 × 320 pixel canvas. Export at the intended dimensions instead of relying on a filename or changing the extension. Keep a separate editable original so you can simplify an animation or change its colors without repeatedly compressing the same export.
Prepare a custom emoji
Discord's custom emoji guidance recommends 128 × 128 pixels, accepts JPEG, PNG, GIF and WebP, and limits files to under 256 KB. A short, recognizable name helps people find the expression in the picker. Artwork that looks clear at full size may become unreadable in chat: test the exported image at a much smaller size before uploading.
Upload and permissions
For stickers, use Server Settings → Stickers in Discord's desktop or web app. You need an available slot and the appropriate Create Expressions permission. Add a name, a related emoji and a description. Manage Expressions controls editing or removing other people's expressions. Use the server's current settings to check available slots; subscription and boost features can change.
When an upload fails
Check one thing at a time: the actual file format, file size, pixel dimensions, available slots and your permissions. Renaming a .jpg file to .png does not convert it. For an oversized animation, try fewer frames, simpler motion or less detailed artwork, then export again. For a still image, remove unnecessary detail rather than making text too small to read. Keep the original file until the new export works.
Write a description that carries the meaning
A useful description communicates the action and emotion. For a fictional waving mascot, try: A purple robot waves hello with both hands. Do not make the description an unrelated joke or a list of search keywords. If the art contains essential words, include their meaning in the description too. Avoid using color alone to distinguish a yes response from a no response.
Using expressions responsibly
An expression that works in one channel may be inappropriate in another. Check the community's rules and avoid sending unwanted material in direct messages. We Are Degenerates's main areas are restricted to verified adults; this public guide does not provide sticker packs or reveal restricted server media. Ask staff about submissions and permissions inside the server rather than assuming every member can upload.
Can I use server expressions everywhere?
Availability outside the original server depends on Discord's current account features and permissions. Being able to see an expression does not grant the right to redistribute its artwork. Check the picker and Discord's help pages for your account's options.
Why does my animated file look still?
Check that the exported file actually contains animation, then check Discord's supported format and your motion settings. A static PNG with a different extension is still a static image. Keep the first frame understandable so the expression remains useful when motion is reduced.