Ready to turn Pinterest into your blog’s secret traffic weapon? Unlike other social networks, Pinterest works more like a visual search engine than just another place to share photos. So here is my ultimate guide on blogging on Pinterest.
Creating a free Pinterest business account is your first step toward reaching a wider audience. Pinterest users love fresh content and new ideas, making it the perfect platform for new bloggers. The best part is that Pinterest blogging doesn’t require an extra cost or years of experience.
Your blog content can find new life through different ways of sharing, from fresh pins to video pins. Pinterest analytics show that the right pin titles and strategic approach can drive more traffic than traditional social media platforms. The good news is that even without many Pinterest followers, your pins have a better chance of being discovered months after posting.
Let’s explore how to make Pinterest work for your blog’s success.
Ready to start making money on Pinterest?
CLICK HERE to check out my complete guide to affiliate marketing on Pinterest!
Is Pinterest the Best Source for Traffic to a Blog?
Pinterest offers a powerful tool for bloggers seeking reliable traffic sources. While Google’s Helpful Content Updates have shaken up traditional search engine optimization, Pinterest’s visual content approach remains stable and growing.
The Pinterest algorithm works differently than Google. Instead of focusing solely on text, Pinterest rewards high-quality images and idea pins that solve problems. Your viral pins can keep driving page views for months or even years.
As bloggers scramble to recover from Google’s recent updates, many find Pinterest a great way to diversify their traffic sources. The key is understanding that Pinterest works as both a social media channel and a search engine.
| Pros of Pinterest Traffic | Cons of Pinterest Traffic |
|---|---|
|
|
The easiest way to start is by creating article pins with catchy titles and additional information. Focus on specific keywords within your niche, and remember that understanding the potential of Pinterest as a marketing tool takes time.
How Google’s HCU Updates Have Destroyed Traditional Blogging
Google’s Helpful Content Updates (Sept 2023 and March 2024) flipped traditional blogging on its head.
Many bloggers, who once relied on SEO, saw their traffic plummet almost overnight. The update aimed to filter out low-quality content, but a side deal with Reddit tilted search results, favoring user-generated content. Enter Pinterest.
For those blogging on Pinterest, it’s a lifeline.
This visually-oriented platform offers a reprieve, allowing bloggers to tap into niche audiences with ease. By creating rich pins and optimizing their Pinterest account, bloggers can regain lost blog traffic.
Pinterest is like a hidden gem, offering alternative routes to success when Google plays hardball.
How Pinterest is Very Viable for Website Traffic in Certain Niches
Blogging on Pinterest shines in visually appealing niches, drawing significant website traffic.
With 70% of users being women, the platform thrives in the following areas:
Most Popular Pinterest Niches
- Home Decor & DIY: Interior design tips, DIY projects, home organization, and renovation ideas dominate Pinterest’s landscape.
- Food & Recipes: Quick meals, baking ideas, healthy recipes, and meal planning consistently rank among the most-pinned content.
- Fashion & Style: Outfit inspiration, seasonal fashion trends, and capsule wardrobe ideas attract millions of daily viewers.
- Beauty & Skincare: Makeup tutorials, skincare routines, and natural beauty remedies are consistently trending topics.
- Personal Finance: Budgeting tips, saving strategies, and passive income ideas attract a growing audience of finance-conscious pinners.
- Weddings & Events: Wedding planning, decoration ideas, and DIY party planning tips remain consistently popular.
- Health & Fitness: Workout routines, healthy lifestyle tips, and wellness advice attract health-conscious pinners.
- Parenting & Kids: Activities for kids, parenting tips, and family organization ideas create engaged communities.
- Travel: Travel guides, destination tips, and packing lists inspire wanderlust and practical planning.
- Arts & Crafts: DIY crafts, art tutorials, and creative project ideas attract both hobbyists and professional creators.
Clever pin designs and a strategic Pinterest profile can turn casual browsers into loyal followers. Create captivating pins that speak to your audience’s heart.
A Pinterest account can be like a magnet for engagement. Leverage rich pins to add depth to your content. It’s like crafting a story with every pin. With each click, you inch closer to achieving your blogging goals. Embrace the Pinterest strategy, and watch your blog blossom.
How Much Traffic Can You Expect from Pinterest?
Traffic from Pinterest varies greatly depending on your niche and strategy. Some bloggers see thousands of monthly page views, while others might only get a few hundred at first.
The Pinterest algorithm favors fresh, high-quality images and unique pins over quantity. The best way to grow traffic isn’t pinning 50 times daily – instead, focus on creating 5-15 new pins with catchy titles and compelling designs. Consistency matters more than volume.
Your pin design and visual content play a huge role in your success.
Pinterest works like a visual search engine, so optimizing your pins with specific keywords helps them get discovered. While viral pins can bring sudden traffic spikes, steady growth comes from regularly creating fresh content that serves your right audience.
Remember that Pinterest is a long-term marketing tool. Most pins take 2-3 months to gain traction, but they can continue driving traffic for years. Start with one high-quality pin per blog post, post it to relevant boards, and gradually increase your pinning as you learn what works.
Steps to Create Your Pinterest Account
Below I am diving into Pinterest step-by-step for beginners as if you were just getting started. Already going on Pinterest and want more advanced tips? Skip down to my How to Know What to Blog About on Pinterest section.
1. Create a Pinterest Business Account
Setting up a Pinterest Business Account is the first thing you need to do before promoting your blog. Here’s the easiest way to get started:
- Visit Pinterest.com and click ‘Create Business Account’ or convert your personal account
- Fill in your business name, website URL, and choose your business category
- Enable the Pinterest tag for your website
- Set up your profile with a professional photo/logo and keyword-rich description
- Create at least 3-5 boards relevant to your blog’s type of content
- Verify your website to unlock additional features and analytics
I’ll get into specifics on most of that below.
2. Claim Your Website
Claiming your website is an important thing for unlocking Pinterest’s full potential as a marketing tool. Here’s the easiest way to verify your site:
- Go to your Pinterest Business settings
- Click ‘Claim’ and enter your website URL
- Choose your verification method (meta tag or HTML file upload)
- Add the verification code to your website’s header or upload the HTML file
- Return to Pinterest and click ‘Submit for Review’
- Wait for Pinterest to verify your claim (usually takes 24 hours)
Once verified, you’ll gain access to additional information like detailed analytics and rich pins features.
3. Fill Out Your Profile
Your Pinterest SEO journey starts with a well-crafted profile. Begin with a clear, professional profile photo – either your headshot or business logo works great.
Next, craft a username that matches your blog name or business. Your display name should include your main keyword to help your right audience find you. In the bio section, write a clear description of what type of content you create and who it helps.
Don’t forget to add your website link and location. These important things help Pinterest understand who you are and what you offer. Include relevant keywords naturally in your description, but avoid stuffing them in.
Create at least 3-5 boards (many successful accounts have dozens) with keyword-rich titles and descriptions that align with your blog topics. This helps Pinterest’s algorithm understand your content focus and show your pins to interested users.
More on boards below!
4. Set Up Your Boards
Creating organized Pinterest boards is the best way to help your right audience find your content. Start with 5-10 main boards that match your blog’s core topics.
Give each board a clear, keyword-rich name that people actually search for. Instead of “Cool Stuff,” use specific titles like “Easy Dinner Recipes” or “Budget Travel Tips.” Your board descriptions should include additional information about what followers can expect to find.
The first thing visitors see is your top boards, so arrange them strategically. Pin at least 20-30 high-quality images to each board before making them public. This shows Pinterest’s algorithm that you’re creating valuable content in specific niches.
Remember to keep your boards focused – mixing too many topics in one board confuses both Pinterest and your followers.
Ready to start making money on Pinterest?
CLICK HERE to check out my complete guide to affiliate marketing on Pinterest!
How to Know What to Blog About on Pinterest
Deciding on blog topics for Pinterest can feel like a treasure hunt, but it’s manageable.
Start with keyword research using Pinterest’s search bar; see what pops up. Those popular searches? They’re gold nuggets waiting for your blog post. Dive into Pinterest trends to see what’s buzzing. Seasonal topics? Always a hit.
Next, examine your Pinterest profile. It’s a window into what your audience craves.
Check out your blog board analytics to uncover what’s already resonating. Use these insights to create content that’s both fresh and relevant. Remember, blogging on Pinterest is all about engaging visuals and timely topics.
Keyword Research with PinClicks
PinClicks is a powerful tool that helps you master Pinterest SEO and understand what makes pins successful. At $29 per month or $249 yearly, it offers several features that take the guesswork out of Pinterest marketing.
It is the ONLY paid tool I use specifically for Pinterest. And it helped take my Pinterest views from 67,000 to 1.3 million in under 12 months.
CLICK HERE to check out PinClicks on their site.
Keyword Research
The keyword research feature shows exact search volumes for Pinterest terms. Instead of guessing, you can see precisely how many people search for specific phrases each month. You’ll know whether to target “easy dinner recipes” or “quick meal ideas” based on real data.
Top Pins Analysis
The Top Pins section reveals which pins perform best for any keyword. You can study these viral pins to understand what catches people’s attention – from image style to text overlays. The tool even shows you how long these pins have been popular, helping you spot lasting trends.
Interest Explorer
This feature helps you discover what your right audience wants to see. It analyzes millions of Pinterest topics, showing you trending content and popular searches in your niche. The easiest way to improve your descriptions is using the tool’s annotation feature, which lets you copy successful pins’ interest tags with one click.
Pin Interest Tagging
The Pin Interest Tagging tool reveals how Pinterest’s algorithm categorizes successful pins. You can see exactly which tags Pinterest assigns to viral pins, then use this additional information in your own pin descriptions. The Search Term Analysis feature uncovers hidden keywords that help your pins get discovered.
Pin Bookmarker & Performance Tracking
A handy Pin Bookmarker lets you save inspiring pins for later reference. The Performance Tracker shows you important metrics like saves, comments, and overall pin scores. This data helps you understand which pin design and content strategies work best.
Think of PinClicks as your Pinterest marketing assistant. It helps identify specific keywords that drive traffic, tracks how well your pins perform, and shows you what’s trending in your niche. While it requires some time to learn all the features, it’s a great way to improve your Pinterest strategy and reach more viewers.
CLICK HERE to check out PinClicks on their site.
Using Pinterest Trends
Tapping into Pinterest trends can transform your blogging strategy.
Visit trends.pinterest.com to uncover what’s currently popular. Use these insights to tailor your blog post ideas to align with trending topics. Imagine your blog board as a dynamic space that evolves with the latest trends.
This keeps your audience engaged and eager for more. Aim to create content that’s not only relevant but also visually appealing.
Think of it as crafting a story that resonates with your readers. With the right approach, your Pinterest business profile becomes a vibrant hub of creativity, drawing in users like bees to honey.
How to Create Amazing Pinterest Pin Images Quickly
Creating pin images in the “old days” (meaning just a couple years ago) meant using Photoshop or another similar tool. And often crafting the perfect pin image took a long time.
But thankfully those days are gone! Here I get into everything you need to know about current best practices for Pinterest pin images.
The Correct Image Size for Pinterest Pins
When it comes to getting the right dimensions for Pinterest pins, think vertical.
The ideal size is 600×900 pixels. This size ensures your images look sharp and professional, capturing attention quickly.
Ever tried squeezing into shoes two sizes too small? Not fun, right?
Similarly, don’t cram important elements into a tiny pin. Leave space for your message to breathe. Vertical pins stand out in the Pinterest feed, making your blog post content more noticeable.
Blogging on Pinterest thrives with eye-catching visuals. So, grab Canva, create stunning graphics, and let your pins do the talking. It’s like having a mini billboard!
Using Canva for Pinterest Pins (free and paid option)
Canva is a powerful tool that makes creating eye-catching Pinterest pins simple, even for beginners. The free version offers everything you need to design high-quality images that grab attention.
Getting started is the easiest way to learn pin design. Just choose “Pinterest Graphic” from Canva’s menu to get a perfectly sized template. You can also use custom dimensions for longer pins. The drag-and-drop interface lets you arrange elements without needing design skills.
Every great pin needs three important things: an eye-catching title, attractive visuals, and your website name. Canva provides free templates, fonts, and design elements to help create these. You can upload your own photos or use Canva’s stock images to create unique pins that stand out.
The best way to succeed is creating a consistent style for your pins. Try different fonts, colors, and layouts until you find what works. Keep your branding consistent so followers recognize your content. Testing multiple pin designs for each post helps you learn what your right audience prefers.
Canva saves you time with features like duplicate designs and saved brand colors. You can quickly create fresh pins by swapping out images and text while keeping your signature style. The platform even lets you schedule pins directly to Pinterest with a Pro account.
Whether you’re creating article pins or idea pins, Canva makes the process straightforward. Start with basic designs and gradually experiment with more complex layouts as you gain confidence.
Using Ideogram for Pinterest Pins (free and paid option)
Ideogram is a powerful tool for creating Pinterest images that stand out. You can start with the free version which gives you basic image generation, or upgrade to paid for faster creation and more advanced features.
The best thing about Ideogram is its ability to create images in the perfect Pinterest ratio of 9:16. This means your pins will look professional and take up maximum space in Pinterest’s feed. You can specify exact dimensions in your prompt to ensure your pins are perfectly sized.
Here’s a great way to create viral pins: First, use PinClicks to find the most successful pins in your niche. Download these high-quality images and use Ideogram’s “describe” feature to analyze them. The AI will break down the image’s style, composition, and key elements. Then, modify the description to create your own unique version that captures what makes the original pin successful.
The easiest way to get started is with simple prompts like “Create a Pinterest pin about [topic] with soft lighting and clean typography.” You can add specific details about colors, style, and mood to match your brand. Ideogram understands Pinterest SEO concepts, so you can request pins that appeal to your right audience.
For paid users, Ideogram offers faster generation times and more detailed customization options. You can create multiple variations of each pin design quickly, perfect for testing different styles with your audience. The tool helps you create fresh, unique pins without copying others’ work directly.
Remember to include your branding elements and catchy titles when finalizing your pin designs. Ideogram can incorporate text overlays and logos seamlessly into the generated images.
But like all current AI image generators, it sometimes gets it wrong.
While hands with 6 figures are getting less common, all ai image programs still sometimes struggle with spelling, so double-check any text you ask it to write and re-do as needed.
Do You Need a Text Overlay on Your Pin Image?
Take a look at the top-performing pins for your keyword. If they’re using text overlays, you will want to do the same thing.
While you won’t (necessarily) want to copy their text overlay word for word, if it’s a popular pin with a lot of repins and saves, clearly Pinterest likes the style.
So keep the layout, colors, font styles, and number and placement of the words in mind. And replicate that without directly copying or stealing.
How to Create Amazing Pinterest Pin Descriptions Quickly
To craft Pinterest pin descriptions swiftly, start by pinpointing your blog post’s core message. Use ChatGPT or Claude.ai to generate engaging, keyword-rich descriptions.
Borrow inspiration from successful pins in your niche.
Below I get into detail about how I use ai programs like Claude.ai or ChatGPT to write my pin descriptions in bulk quickly and easily.
Using ChatGPT or Claude.ai for Pinterest Pin Descriptions
ChatGPT and Claude are powerful tools for creating Pinterest-optimized descriptions that help your pins get discovered. While both offer free versions, their paid options provide faster responses and more advanced features for serious Pinterest marketers.
The best way to use these AI tools is to provide clear instructions about what you need. Create a prompt that specifies exactly what you want: titles between 50-70 characters and descriptions between 450-500 characters. Tell the AI to write for your audience at an 8th-grade reading level, keeping the tone professional but approachable.
When crafting your prompt, ask for Pinterest SEO elements like specific keywords relevant to your topic.
Or better yet, if you are using PinClicks, copy and paste all the annotated interests from all the top pins and ask the ai to include them in the descriptions.
The AI will naturally weave these words into your descriptions in a way that flows for readers. Remind the AI to avoid hashtags since Pinterest doesn’t use them for search anymore and most seasoned Pinterest experts say to avoid or drastically reduce using them.
Here’s a sample prompt:
“Write a Pinterest pin title and description for [your article topic]. Make the title 50-70 characters and the description 450-500 characters. Include keywords like [list 3-4 relevant keywords]. Write at an 8th-grade level with a semi-casual tone. Focus on providing value and encouraging clicks.”
The easiest way to test effectiveness is creating several versions and tracking which ones perform better. Both AIs can generate multiple options quickly, letting you test different approaches to find what resonates with your audience.
Remember that while AI helps create optimized descriptions, adding your personal touch makes pins feel authentic and engaging.
How Many Pins Should You Do Per Blog Post
Creating multiple unique pins is the best way to maximize your blog post’s reach on Pinterest. Most successful bloggers create between 3-15 pins for each post, with 5 being a good starting point.
Each new pin needs its own distinct image, catchy title, and description to avoid being flagged as duplicate content. The Pinterest algorithm favors fresh visual content, so don’t just change the text on the same image. Schedule these unique pins to post at different times, spacing them out over several weeks or months.
Pin each design to a different relevant board to reach your right audience in multiple places. For example, a recipe post might go to boards for “Easy Dinners,” “Budget Meals,” and “Family Recipes.” The best thing about this strategy is that each pin has a fresh chance to go viral.
Remember to track which type of content performs best. Some pins might get immediate traction while others grow slowly over time. Use this data to guide future pin designs and board selections.
How Often Should You Pin on Pinterest?
Pinning frequency matters when blogging on Pinterest.
Aim to pin 5-15 times daily. Consistency is your best friend here—like watering a plant, regular care keeps it thriving.
Create a mix of fresh and repinned content to keep your audience engaged.
Over time, you’ll see what works best. Listen to your audience; they’ll guide your frequency. Tools like Tailwind make scheduling a breeze, giving you more time to craft those eye-catching pins. Remember, diversity is key.
Mix up your pin types and styles. This approach not only boosts visibility but also keeps your content from feeling like yesterday’s news.
Do You Need Tailwind to Pin on Pinterest?
Is Tailwind necessary when pinning on Pinterest? Not necessarily.
While Tailwind provides helpful automation features, the native Pinterest scheduler, which is free, works just fine for most bloggers. Tailwind is like having a personal assistant, ensuring you’re pinning consistently without breaking a sweat.
However, if you’re just starting or blogging on Pinterest casually, you might find the built-in scheduler sufficient.
It’s easy to use and keeps your pins flowing smoothly. Many bloggers find success without spending a dime. Of course, if you’re juggling multiple tasks or managing a business account, Tailwind could be your secret weapon for efficiency.
Personally I used Tailwind 4-6 years ago but currently do not and I only use the native Pinterest scheduler. I too am trying to recover traffic from Google’s HCU updates, and perhaps once my Pinterest traffic gets back to where my Google traffic was I might consider going back to Tailwind.
But at the moment, it seems unnecessary.
Winning Pinterest Strategies
Winning on Pinterest demands creativity and precision. Start by leveraging group boards for wider reach. Think of them as collaborative studios where your blog art shines brighter. Keep a steady pinning schedule to maintain visibility. Tools like Tailwind can automate this, or use Pinterest’s own scheduler if you prefer. Engage with other users by repinning their content—it’s like a friendly nod in the Pinterest community. Hashtags can categorize your pins but use them sparingly. And always, always keep your visuals and descriptions engaging. In the world of blogging on Pinterest, a picture is indeed worth a thousand words—make them count!
How to Schedule Pins on Pinterest
Scheduling pins is the easiest way to maintain a consistent Pinterest presence. You have two main options: Pinterest’s free native scheduler or Tailwind’s powerful tool.
Native Pinterest Scheduler
Pinterest’s built-in scheduler is a great way to start without any extra cost. Here’s how to use it:
- Access the scheduler at pinterest.com/pin-creation-tool
- Upload your pin image (one at a time only)
- Write your catchy title and keyword-rich description
- Add your destination URL and select a board
- Click “Schedule for later” and choose your time
- Schedule up to 30 days in advance
The native scheduler works well for beginners, but it has limitations. You can’t bulk schedule, and you’re limited to 30-minute time slots.
Tailwind
Tailwind is a powerful tool that helps you schedule hundreds of unique pins quickly. Here’s the process:
- Create an account (free trial available)
- Upload multiple pins at once using bulk upload
- Add titles and descriptions for each pin
- Select multiple relevant boards for each pin
- Set interval timing between board postings
- Use “SmartSchedule” to post at optimal times
- Schedule months in advance
While Tailwind costs money (plans start at $24.99 monthly or $179.88 if you pay annually), it saves much time and helps reach your right audience more effectively. The tool also provides analytics to track which type of content performs best.
CLICK HERE to get started on Tailwind for FREE!
Do Group Boards Still Work Well?
They’ve evolved, but they’re not obsolete.
Group boards can boost reach if used wisely. Choose boards with active members and relevant niches.
Quality trumps quantity. Overloading yourself with too many boards can backfire.
It’s like trying to juggle too many balls. Aim for engagement rather than just exposure. But also check your analytics occasionally and make sure you are actually getting clicks from these group boards.
A board with little to no activity can actually hurt your growth.
Share unique, eye-catching content to stand out. Experiment with different strategies to find what clicks. In this ever-changing landscape, flexibility and creativity are your best friends.
So, get pinning and create your own success story!
Is Repinning Content from Others a Good Idea?
Borrowing content from others might seem like a shortcut in blogging on Pinterest.
But here’s the catch—engaging with others’ pins can actually boost your visibility. It’s like joining a friendly conversation at a party.
You get noticed, and your own pins might catch a few more eyes too.
Repinning adds variety to your boards, keeping your audience curious. It’s also a smart way to spot trends and learn what works.
But most experts recommend primarily pinning your own pins and then occasionally sprinkling on pins from others as long as they are relevant to your boards.
Hash Tags or No Hash Tags?
Pinterest SEO doesn’t rely on hashtags anymore. While hashtags were important in the past, the Pinterest algorithm now focuses on keyword-rich descriptions instead.
The best way to optimize your pins is to use natural language and relevant keywords in your descriptions. Rather than using #recipe or #DIY, simply include these terms naturally in your text. This helps Pinterest better understand your type of content and show it to the right audience.
Focus on writing clear, engaging descriptions that include your important keywords organically.
If you do want to experiment with them, less is more. And keep them hyper-focused on your topic; no broad hashtags like #relationships
How Long Does It Take to Get Traffic from Pinterest?
Getting traffic from Pinterest takes time and patience. Unlike other social media channels that can bring quick results, Pinterest works more like a search engine, requiring at least 3-6 months before seeing significant page views.
The first thing to understand is how the Pinterest algorithm learns about your content. For the first three months, focus on creating unique pins with strong Pinterest SEO. Your impressions will grow first, followed by saves and clicks to your website.
The best results often come around the 9-month mark.
Many Pinterest experts see their clients’ accounts suddenly take off at this point, sometimes even getting viral pins that bring thousands of visitors overnight. This happens because Pinterest has had enough time to understand your type of content and show it to the right audience.
Don’t give up if you don’t see immediate results. Keep creating high-quality images and pinning consistently. While waiting for traffic to grow, use this time to test different pin designs and topics to see what resonates with your followers.
I started Pinterest back up in December 2023 after seeing that I could no longer rely on Google for traffic.
I had used Pinterest in the past but foolishly stopped in 2021 after my Google traffic exploded.
At the time in December of 2023, my views on Pinterest (not the same as outbound clicks) were 67,000. Within 12 months that jumped to 1.3 million.
Final Thoughts
Your Pinterest marketing strategy might feel overwhelming, but remember the most important thing is consistency. Taking the time to understand user behavior and optimize your alt text pays off in the long run.
Testing different types of content and pin titles through A/B testing reveals what works best. Don’t be afraid to use free stock photos while you’re building your own content library. The best time to post varies, but studying your Pinterest analytics will show you when your pins get most traffic.
Creating a direct link between your blog name and Pinterest presence takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Whether you’re experimenting with affiliate links or crafting the perfect pin titles, each step builds toward Pinterest success. Remember that last year’s strategies might need updating as the platform evolves.
Stay patient, keep creating fresh pins, and watch your Pinterest traffic grow.
Ready to start making money on Pinterest?
CLICK HERE to check out my complete guide to affiliate marketing on Pinterest!