How to Add a Watermark to a PDF (Free)

RunFreeTools TeamJun 1, 20261 min read
How to Add a Watermark to a PDF (Free)

Marking a document as CONFIDENTIAL, DRAFT or with your company name protects it and sets expectations. The Watermark PDF tool stamps your text diagonally across every page, with control over size and opacity, all in your browser with no upload.

Why watermark a PDF

Watermarks label a document's status (draft, confidential, sample), deter unauthorized sharing, and brand reports and proposals. A diagonal, semi-transparent stamp is the convention because it's visible on every page without obscuring the content underneath.

How to watermark a PDF

  1. Open the Watermark PDF tool and add your file. 2. Type your watermark text. 3. Adjust the font size and opacity. 4. Apply and download. The watermark is added in your browser, so the document stays private.

Choosing size and opacity

Lower opacity (around 20-30%) keeps the text readable while the watermark stays clearly visible. Larger font sizes suit single-word stamps like CONFIDENTIAL. After watermarking, compress the file with Compress PDF or sign it with Sign PDF if needed.

Try the tool from this guide

Watermark PDF

Add a text watermark to every PDF page.

Open Watermark PDF

Frequently asked questions

How do I add a CONFIDENTIAL watermark to a PDF?

Open the Watermark PDF tool, type CONFIDENTIAL, set the size and opacity, and download — the text is stamped diagonally on every page.

Does it watermark every page?

Yes. The text is applied across all pages of the PDF.

Is my PDF uploaded?

No. The watermark is added in your browser, so your document never leaves your device.

Can I control how faint the watermark is?

Yes. Adjust the opacity so the watermark is visible but the content stays readable.

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