How to Add a Watermark to a PDF
Stamp text like CONFIDENTIAL or DRAFT across every page of a PDF, with live preview and control over color, opacity and size.
Updated July 12, 20261 min read
Short answer: Open the Add Watermark tool, upload your PDF, type your text (e.g. CONFIDENTIAL), adjust color, opacity and size in the side panel, then download. The watermark is applied to every page.
Watermarks mark documents as confidential, draft, or your property. A good watermark is visible but not distracting — semi-transparent, diagonal, and repeated across the page.
How to add a watermark
- Upload your PDF to the Add Watermark tool. The editor opens with the watermark panel on the right.
- Type your watermark text — you'll see it appear instantly across the page.
- Fine-tune the look: choose a color, set the opacity (how see-through it is) and the size.
- Download — the watermark is baked into every page.
Choosing color, opacity and size
| Setting | What it controls | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Color | The text color | Red reads as a warning; grey is subtle |
| Opacity | How transparent it is | 20–35% stays readable without hiding content |
| Size | The text size | Larger for short words, smaller for long phrases |
Good watermark practice
- Keep opacity low enough that the underlying text stays readable.
- Use short, clear words: CONFIDENTIAL, DRAFT, COPY, or a company name.
- Always keep an un-watermarked master copy of the original.