Pinterest Description Character Limit: Current Specs

Check the field, not an old summary

Different Pinterest fields serve different purposes. The current Pin specification page is the appropriate starting point for a standard image Pin description, rather than an undated chart of social-media limits.

For a sewing tutorial, the title might identify the project while the description explains the fabric, skill level, and instructions available at the destination. Measure those fields separately.

Write descriptions for relevance

Pinterest says descriptions help its algorithm determine relevance for delivery. Its specification guide also says descriptions do not appear in the home feed or search feed, so avoid depending on that text as the only visible explanation.

A useful description could explain that a tote-bag tutorial includes lining instructions and a printable cutting guide. Do not add unrelated craft terms merely to fill the available space.

Keep alternative text descriptive

Pinterest defines alt text as an explanation of what people can see in a Pin for people using screen readers. It is not simply another version of the promotional description.

For an illustrated recipe card, describe the visible dish and meaningful visual information. Keep sales language and a long list of search phrases out of the accessibility field.

Validate the route you actually use

Paste the finished description into Pinterest or your chosen publishing service before scheduling. An integration may enforce a different constraint from the native Pin specification.

Use the character counter to compare edits without losing the original. If you must shorten a balcony-gardening description, preserve the plant type and growing conditions before removing optional background.

Sources and further reading

• Pinterest Help: Review Pin specs
• Pinterest Help: Add alternative text to your Pins