How to make a VHS overlay PNG
- Pick a starting preset. Camcorder REC for home-video edits, Clean Scanlines for a subtle CRT layer, Damaged Tracking for horror and glitch cuts, Static Snow for transitions.
- Choose the size. 1920 × 1080 for standard 1080p timelines, 1080 × 1920 for vertical Reels, TikTok and Shorts, 1080 × 1080 for square posts.
- Tune the layers. Adjust scanlines, noise, tracking bars, edge fringe and vignette. Turn on the sample photo to judge the overlay over a real image.
- Download and stack it. Put the PNG on the top track of your editor and set the duration to match the clip.
VHS overlay PNG, transparent and template
Most VHS overlay downloads are fixed files: one resolution, one strength, often with a black background you have to key out. This generator draws the texture on a fully transparent background at the size you need, so there is nothing to key and nothing to crop.
Treat each preset as a template. Save a light scanline layer for talking-head videos, a REC and timestamp layer for vlogs and wedding throwbacks, and a heavy tracking layer for found-footage or music-video moments. Everything is generated in your browser, so you can make as many variations as you want.
Overlay or full VHS effect?
An overlay adds the screen texture on top of footage: scanlines, noise, tracking bars and text. It does not change the colors of the clip underneath. For the full tape look, with softened color, color bleed and time-base wobble processed into the picture itself, run your file through the VHS video filter or the VHS photo effect. To layer the texture onto one image and export it straight away, use VHS overlay online. The vhs filter homepage covers what makes the VHS look convincing.
VHS Overlay Generator FAQ
Is the VHS overlay generator free?
Yes. Every overlay downloads free as a PNG with no watermark and no download limit, at sizes up to 1920 × 1080.
Is the PNG really transparent?
Yes. The PNG has a real alpha channel. Scanlines, noise, tracking bars, edge fringe, vignette and text are drawn at partial opacity and the rest stays clear, so the overlay sits on top of your footage without hiding it.
Can I use the overlays in commercial projects?
Yes. The overlays are generated in your browser from your own settings, so you can use them in personal and commercial videos, thumbnails and designs.
How do I use a VHS overlay in Premiere, CapCut or DaVinci Resolve?
Import the PNG, place it on a track above your clip and stretch it across the clip length. Keep the blend mode on Normal, or try Screen or Overlay for a softer look, then lower the opacity until the tape texture supports the shot instead of covering it.
Can I apply the VHS effect directly to my photo or video instead?
Yes. Use the VHS photo effect or VHS video filter pages to process your own file in the browser and export a finished PNG, MP4 or WebM.
