What happens when you convert Sketch to ICNS
- Sketch files are converted from the preview image saved inside the file (the first page, up to about 2000 px), not re-rendered.
- The ICNS file contains every size macOS uses, from 16×16 to 1024×1024 (Retina), stored as PNG.
- For the sharpest icon, start with a square image of at least 1024×1024. Other shapes are centered with transparent padding.
- Transparency is kept.
Sketch vs ICNS
| Feature | Sketch | ICNS |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Vector | Lossless |
| Transparency | Yes | Yes |
| Animation | No | No |
| Colors | 16.7M | 16.7M |
| Best for | UI design | Mac app and folder icons |
How to convert Sketch to ICNS
- Drop your Sketch files on the box above, or click it to choose files. You can add many at once.
- Adjust the options if you want. The defaults work well for most files.
- Click Download for each ICNS file, or "Download all" to get a ZIP.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to convert my files here?
Yes. Conversion happens entirely in your browser. Your files are never uploaded to a server, so nobody else can see them.
Is it free? Are there limits?
It's completely free, with no sign-up, watermarks or daily limits. The only limit is your device's memory for very large files.
Can I convert many Sketch files at once?
Yes. Drop as many files as you like; they're converted one after another and you can download them all as a ZIP.
Will converting Sketch to ICNS reduce quality?
No. Both formats are lossless, so every pixel is kept.
Does ICNS keep transparency?
Yes, ICNS supports transparency and it's kept.
Are layers kept?
No. The file is flattened into a single image, exactly as it looks. Keep the original if you still need the layers.
Why is my Sketch image smaller than the design?
Sketch saves a preview image inside every file, and that preview is what gets converted. For full-size or per-artboard exports, export from the app itself.
How do I use the ICNS file?
In Finder, select an app or folder, press ⌘I, then drag the .icns file onto the small icon at the top of the Info window. In an app bundle, it goes in Contents/Resources.