How to make a PC screensaver with your own images

1. Decide on the display and media

Check the resolution and aspect ratio of the monitor you will actually use. Most PC displays are 16:9 or 16:10, while ultrawide monitors commonly use 21:9. Source artwork at or above the intended display size reduces visible softness when it is enlarged.

• Confirm that you have permission to use each image or illustration.
• Prefer short clips with clean loop points for GIF and video.
• Listen to audio over several loops before adding it to a long-running scene.

2. Set the background and canvas ratio first

Choose a solid color, gradient, or background media, then match the canvas to the target monitor. Cover fills the frame but can crop edges. Contain preserves the complete image but can leave space. A blurred fill keeps the full original in front while using a soft enlargement to fill the remaining area.

3. Place information and decoration

• Keep a clock away from screen edges and give it sufficient contrast.
• Limit copy to one or two short lines at a size that works across the room.
• Resize images, GIFs, and video with edge handles or enter X, Y, W, and H values directly.
• Reorder overlapping layers and lock finished elements to prevent accidental movement.

4. Add motion only when it serves the scene

Choose a slow float, straight movement, or curved path that matches the atmosphere. Off-canvas path points let an object enter gradually from outside the visible area and leave again.

Multiple GIFs, videos, and particle effects can raise CPU and GPU load quickly. If heat or dropped frames appear, reduce simultaneous media, resolution, or frame rate before adding more effects.

5. Save and test in real fullscreen

• Confirm that the project is saved in My screensavers.
• Run it for at least ten minutes and check motion, audio loops, wake behavior, and heat.
• Export an important project as an .ambientpack and keep it separately.
• On supported Edge and Chrome versions, a folder you select can become the project store.