How to watermark and number PDF pages
To add a watermark to a PDF, upload the file to Watermark PDF, choose text or image, adjust size, transparency and rotation, and download the result. To number pages, use Add Page Numbers and choose the position, format and the number the count starts from. Both tools apply the change to all pages at once.
What watermarks and page numbers are for
A watermark shows the origin or status of a document: Confidential, Draft, Controlled copy or your company name. Page numbers make it easier to look up and cite parts of contracts, reports, course packets and academic papers. Both make the file look more professional and reduce version and reading errors.
How to add a watermark
With the Watermark PDF tool:
- Upload the PDF that will get the watermark.
- Choose between text or image (PNG or JPG) and enter the content.
- Adjust font, size, transparency and rotation until it looks the way you want.
- Process and download the watermarked PDF.
Tips for a watermark that does not get in the way of reading
The balance is to be visible without hiding the text:
- Use high transparency so the content stays readable underneath.
- A diagonal rotation of around 45° is the most traditional and makes it harder to simply crop the watermark out.
- For logos, prefer a PNG with a transparent background.
- Short text works better than long sentences.
How to number the pages
With the Add Page Numbers tool:
- Upload the PDF that needs numbering.
- Choose the number position (top or bottom; left, center or right), the margin, the format, the size and the color.
- Set the number the count starts at and, if you like, the page range.
- Process and download the numbered PDF.
Unnumbered cover and continuing from another file
To keep the cover from getting a number, limit numbering to start from the second page using the page range. If the document is a continuation of another, set the Start at field to the next number in the sequence. Pick a color that contrasts with the background and a size that is readable but discreet, and increase the margin if the number sits too close to the text.
Right order and security
Organize the pages before numbering so you do not have to redo it: use Reorder Pages or Delete Pages. If you want to apply a watermark, page numbers, a signature and a password in a single pass, Edit PDF brings it all together on one screen. Remember that a watermark is not a substitute for a password: to restrict who can open the file, use Protect PDF.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my logo as a watermark?
Yes. Upload a PNG or JPG image and adjust its size on the page and its transparency. A PNG with a transparent background gives the best result.
How do I leave the cover unnumbered?
Use the page range to start numbering on the second page, or adjust the Start at field so the count begins at the number you want.
Does a watermark protect the document from copying?
Not by itself. It indicates origin or status, but to restrict access to the file, combine it with password protection.