A static sticker gets the point across; an animated one gets the laugh. LINE animations use APNG — an animated PNG that keeps transparency. Making one is less about a special tool and more about preparing a short, clean sequence of frames at the right size. This guide covers the basics so you can plan an animated set without surprises. First, understand the format in the PNG vs APNG reference →
APNG basics
- APNG = PNG + frames. Same transparency, plus motion.
- Loops. Animations play on a short loop in chat.
- Small and short. LINE caps frame count and duration, so keep it brief.
- Not GIF. GIF has poor transparency and is not accepted; APNG is the right format.
Step 1 — Design the motion
Pick a simple loop: a wave, a blink, a bounce, a nod. The best animated stickers repeat seamlessly, so plan the last frame to flow back into the first. Avoid long stories — a second or two is plenty.
Step 2 — Create the frames
You need a series of still images, each one step of the motion:
- Draw each frame (in an editor that exports frames), or
- Render frames from an animation app, or
- Reuse a static sticker and vary a small element per frame.
Keep every frame the same 320×320 size and a transparent background.
Step 3 — Assemble as APNG
Combine the frames into a single APNG. The order and timing of frames decide how smooth the loop feels. Preview it — a jerky sequence usually means uneven frame spacing or missing in-between frames.
Step 4 — Check the limits
- Dimensions: 320×320 main canvas (same as static).
- Frame count & duration: stay within LINE’s cap; keep it short.
- File size: oversized APNGs are rejected or slow to load.
- Transparency: background must be cleared, not white.
The static dimensions are detailed in the size & format guide →
Step 5 — Publish
Import the APNG into the LINE Sticker Maker as an animated set and submit. The prep (frame size, transparency) is what determines approval.
Tips for better animated stickers
- Fewer frames, well-spaced often looks smoother than many rushed ones.
- Seamless loop — end where you began.
- Subtle motion reads better at small chat size than wild action.
- Test the loop before publishing; a visible jump is distracting.
FAQ
Can I use a GIF?
No — LINE uses APNG for animated stickers. GIF lacks proper transparency and is not accepted.
How many frames should I use?
Enough to read as motion (often under a dozen), staying within LINE’s cap. More is not always better; spacing matters more.
Do animated stickers need the same size as static?
Yes — 320×320 main canvas, transparent. Only the format (APNG) and frame count differ.
Can the cutter make the animation?
The cutter preps individual images (crop, resize, background). Assemble the frames into APNG in a tool that supports it, then publish.
Prep each frame as a clean 320×320 PNG with the free LINE sticker cutter →