Emojis have become a universal language in the digital world, making conversations more expressive and lively. A recent trend taking over social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram is emoji stacking, which allows users to create unique emoji collages. However, creating an emoji stack isn’t as straightforward as it may seem, leading to some hilarious failed attempts. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to master emoji stacking in iMessage.
Getting Started with Emoji Stacking
Time Required: 3 minutes
Tools Needed: iPhone
Step 1: Accessing the Emoji Keyboard
Start by opening a conversation in iMessage. Tap on the text field, as if you are about to type a message. Now, tap on the emoji button (the smiley face icon) located on the lower left corner of the keyboard to access the emoji keyboard.
Step 2: Selecting Your Base Emoji
The base emoji is crucial in emoji stacking as it sets the tone for your emoji collage. To select your base emoji, navigate through the emoji keyboard and tap, hold, and drag your chosen emoji into the text field. Once you’re satisfied with your base emoji, press send.
Step 3: Adding Layers of Emojis
Once your base emoji is sent, you can start adding layers of emojis. Scroll through the emoji keyboard to find emojis that you want to layer on your base emoji. Tap, hold, and drag each emoji onto the base emoji. You can repeat this process as many times as you want.
Note: The selection and placement of emojis in your stack should be done carefully to maintain the balance and aesthetics of your emoji collage.
Step 4: Repositioning an Emoji
You can reposition an emoji in a stack by pressing down on it and moving it to a new location. Release it when it’s in the right place. You can also resize your emoji by pinching it while it’s pressed.
Step 5: Deleting an Emoji from a Stack
To delete an emoji from your stack, tap and hold the base emoji until a menu appears. Select “Sticker Details” and swipe left on any emoji you wish to delete.
Emoji Stacking in Action
If you want to see how emoji stacking works in real life, check out these Instagram and TikTok videos from users who have already got the hang of it:
Emoji Stacking Tutorial on Instagram
Emoji Stacking Tutorial on TikTok
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” – Albert Einstein
About the Author
Elizabeth de Luna is a digital culture reporter who covers the internet’s influence on self-expression, fashion, and fandom. Her work explores how technology shapes our identities, communities, and emotions. Prior to joining Mashable, Elizabeth spent six years in tech. Her reporting has been published in notable outlets like Rolling Stone, The Guardian, TIME, and Teen Vogue. You can follow her on Instagram
