How to use the Watermark PDF tool
- Add your PDFDrop the PDF onto the box or click to choose it.
- Design the watermarkType your text or choose a PNG/JPG logo, then set the size, color, opacity and rotation.
- Choose layout and pagesPlace it once in the center or tile it across the page, on all pages or only the ones you list.
- DownloadClick “Add watermark & download” to save the watermarked copy. Your original file is not changed.
Features
- Text or imageUse a word like DRAFT, SAMPLE or PAID, or stamp your company logo.
- Full controlSet font, size, color, transparency and rotation, and see the result in the preview instantly.
- Tiled watermarksRepeat the watermark across the page so it can’t simply be cropped away.
- Any languageText in scripts the standard PDF fonts don’t cover, such as Hindi, Arabic or Chinese, is stamped as a sharp image.
- PrivateEverything happens in your browser. The PDF is never uploaded.
Why add a watermark to a PDF?
- Mark the status of a document: DRAFT, FINAL, COPY, VOID or PAID tell readers at a glance what they are looking at.
- Discourage sharing: CONFIDENTIAL or “Prepared for Jane Doe” reminds recipients that the document is not for distribution.
- Brand your work: a subtle logo on proposals, portfolios and e-books makes your content recognizably yours.
- Protect samples: SAMPLE or PREVIEW across design proofs and photos prevents clients from using them before paying.
Tips for a good-looking watermark
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Opacity | 15–30% keeps the text underneath readable. Use 50% or more for VOID or SAMPLE stamps. |
| Rotation | 45° is the classic diagonal look. 0° suits logos and footer-style marks. |
| Color | Red signals urgency (CONFIDENTIAL); gray is neutral and less distracting. |
| Layout | Center for a single bold mark; tiled for documents that might be cropped or screenshotted. |
Using your logo
A PNG with a transparent background gives the cleanest result, because only the logo itself appears on the page. A JPG always brings its rectangular background with it. Set the width as a percentage of the page so the logo has the same proportions on every page size, and lower the opacity for a subtle effect.
Can a watermark be removed?
The watermark is added to the page content, so it prints and appears in every PDF reader. However, someone with a PDF editor can still find and delete it, so a watermark is a deterrent, not a lock. To stop people opening a file at all, add a password with Protect PDF. For page numbers instead of a watermark, use Add Page Numbers.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add a watermark to a PDF for free?+
Add your PDF, type the watermark text or choose a logo, adjust the look in the preview and click “Add watermark & download”. It’s free with no sign-up.
Can I watermark only some pages?+
Yes. Type the pages in the Pages box, for example 1, 3-5. Leave it empty to watermark every page.
Will the text under the watermark still be readable?+
Yes, if you keep the opacity low, around 15–30%. The original text also stays selectable and searchable.
Can I use my logo as a watermark?+
Yes. Switch to “Image / logo”, choose a PNG or JPG and set its width and opacity. PNGs with transparent backgrounds look best.
Is my PDF uploaded?+
No. The watermark is added in your browser and your file never leaves your device.