PDF Watermark
Add a diagonal text watermark to all PDF pages
100% free. Runs entirely in your browser - your files and data never leave your device and nothing is uploaded to any server.
Drop your PDF here or click to upload
PDF files only · Max 100 MB
About this tool
Watermarking stamps a diagonal, semi-transparent text overlay - like "CONFIDENTIAL," "DRAFT," or your company name - across every page of a PDF. It's a quick way to mark draft documents, protect shared copies from being passed off as final, or brand documents before distribution.
Assemble and finish a PDF for sending
Combine, order, number, then lock it. Protecting first would block every later step.
- 1MergeCombine the separate files into one.Open
- 2Reorder pagesPut everything in reading order.Open
- 3Add page numbersMakes a long document referenceable.Open
- 4WatermarkMark it as a draft or confidential.You are here
- 5Password protectDo this last - it locks further editing.Open
How to use this tool
- Upload documentSelect the PDF you want to mark as draft/confidential/branded copy.
- Enter watermark textUse clear labels like `DRAFT`, `CONFIDENTIAL`, or organization name.
- Adjust style and opacityTune size, angle, and transparency for visibility without blocking readability.
- Apply to pages and exportStamp watermark and download protected distribution copy.
How to add a watermark to a PDF
Type the watermark text, set how transparent it should be, and download the stamped PDF. The text is drawn diagonally across every page, so it is clearly visible without hiding the content underneath.
Keep it short - one or two words such as DRAFT, SAMPLE or COPY read best. A watermark discourages misuse and marks a document as unofficial, but it is not security: anyone with an editor can work around it, so use a password for anything truly sensitive.
Key features
- Clearly marks document status and ownership.
- Discourages misuse of drafts as final copies.
- Supports internal review and secure sharing workflows.
- Simple way to brand distributed PDFs at scale.
Common uses
- Marking legal/finance drafts before approval.
- Branding proposal documents sent to clients.
- Labeling confidential internal policy files.
- Tagging sample-only documents for public viewing.
Tips for better results
- Use strong but readable diagonal placement across the page center.
- Keep opacity moderate so text remains easily readable beneath.
- Store clean original before watermarking for future reuse.
- Use different watermark labels by stage (draft/review/final).
Mistakes to avoid
- Applying opaque watermarks that block key document text.
- Using generic watermark text that does not communicate purpose.
- Losing original non-watermarked source file.
- Assuming watermark alone prevents determined unauthorized reuse.
Frequently asked questions
Yes - enter any text you want, such as "DRAFT," "CONFIDENTIAL," or a company name.
The watermark is rendered semi-transparent and diagonal specifically so the underlying page content stays fully readable underneath it.
The watermark becomes part of the page content once applied - keep your original, unwatermarked file if you might need a clean copy later.
Keep it short and clear: DRAFT, CONFIDENTIAL, SAMPLE, COPY or the recipient's name. A recipient-specific watermark discourages forwarding, because a leaked copy shows who it came from.
Around 15-30% opacity keeps the text underneath readable while the mark is still obvious. Light grey works on most documents; avoid colours that clash with highlighted sections.
It deters casual sharing but does not stop copying. Combine it with a password or restricted permissions when the content really must stay private.