How to Make a Minecraft Skin (Java and Bedrock)

Quick answer

A Minecraft skin is a 64 × 64 PNG image that wraps around your character.
Pick Classic (4-pixel arms, like Steve) or Slim (3-pixel arms, like Alex).
Java: upload it on minecraft.net or in the launcher. Bedrock: use the Dressing Room.

Your skin is the first thing people see on stream and in your videos. Making your own takes less time than you'd think.

How a skin file works

A skin is a flat image cut into pieces that fold around your head, body, arms and legs.

64×64pixels, saved as a PNG

2layers: base and outer

9default skins in the game

Base layer: your actual body. On Java it can't be see-through.
Outer layer: sits slightly above the base. Use it for hair, hats, hoodies, glasses and 3D details.

Make it popPut shading and texture on the outer layer. It sticks out a little, so it looks 3D in game.

Model	Arm width	Default skins
Classic	4 pixels	Steve, Ari, Kai, Sunny, Zuri
Slim	3 pixels	Alex, Efe, Makena, Noor

Pick the right one when you uploadA slim skin uploaded as Classic shows a gap on each arm. Choose the arm type that matches what you drew.

Save your skin as a 64 × 64 PNG.
Open the Minecraft Launcher and go to the Skins tab (or your profile on minecraft.net).
Upload it and pick Classic or Slim.

Open the Dressing Room, go to Classic Skins, and import your PNG (on Windows and mobile). Choose classic or slim when asked.

Want to see how your skin looks in armour trims or with an elytra? Load it into the outfit previewer.