Key takeaways
- Add a text or image watermark to every page of a PDF.
- Tiled (mosaic) watermarks are much harder to crop out.
- Lower transparency keeps the content readable.
- Watermarking ID copies with the recipient's name helps prevent misuse.
A watermark tells everyone what a document is — a draft, a confidential copy, property of your company — and discourages misuse. It takes a minute to add.
How to add a watermark
- Open Watermark PDF and add your file.
- Choose Text or Image.
- Type your text (e.g.
CONFIDENTIAL) or upload a logo. - Set the position, size, rotation and transparency.
- Turn on Tiled (mosaic) to repeat it across the page if you want.
- Download the watermarked PDF.
Popular watermarks
DRAFT— for documents still under reviewCONFIDENTIAL— internal reports and contractsCOPY— duplicates of originalsSAMPLE— portfolio work and templates- Your logo — branded proposals and price lists
Protect ID copies with a watermark
When you send an ID copy, add a watermark like Copy for ABC Bank – October 2026 – not valid for other purposes. If the copy leaks, it's obvious where it came from and harder to reuse. See scan an ID card front and back.
Watermark vs password vs redaction
| Goal | Tool |
|---|---|
| Show status or ownership | Watermark |
| Stop unauthorized people from opening | Protect PDF |
| Remove sensitive information completely | Redact PDF |
Private by design
The watermark is added inside your browser; your document is never uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
Can a watermark be removed?
A determined person with editing software can sometimes remove watermarks, especially simple ones. Tiled watermarks are harder to remove.
Can I use my logo?
Yes. Choose an image watermark and upload your logo, ideally a PNG with a transparent background.
Will the watermark cover the text?
Set the transparency low enough that the text underneath stays readable.
Is a watermark the same as protection?
No. For confidentiality, add a password with Protect PDF as well.