How To: Add a Background to a PDF or Printable

Downloaded that perfect printable but think it’s just a tad boring? Did you know you can add a background to any PDF using Adobe Acrobat in less than 5 minutes? Watch below for a step-by-step tutorial.

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Can’t view the video? Here’s each step as discussed in the video.

STEP 1: FIND YOUR PRINTABLE

Make sure you have the rights to modify the printable you’ve selected. If you aren’t sure, always err on the side of caution! Contact the owner of the printable if you don’t know. Most printables you’ve purchased will allow you to make this small adjustment for personal use only, but I’d always contact the seller to be sure. Note: All free B/W printables from my site allow for basic modification for personal use only. If you’d like to try out this tutorial on your own, you can find this printable and many others in the free resource library, which you can access after signing up for the email list.

STEP 2: SELECT YOUR BACKGROUND

Find your desired background image. There are many free & paid places to find digital paper and backgrounds. Spend some time finding a few patterns you really like. If you’re wondering where to find some great resources, I’ve got a whole list here.

STEP 3: PLACE BACKGROUND ONTO PDF PRINTABLE

Open up Adobe Acrobat Pro (not Reader. For this method, you must have a subscription to Adobe CC or have purchased Adobe Acrobat Pro separately) and click Edit PDF.

Click on the white background to delete.

Click “Add Image” on the ribbon on the top and find your desired background image.

STEP 4: ADJUST BACKGROUND

Click somewhere near the top left corner to place your background

Click on the bottom right corner to adjust the size of the background image. Drag to one side and stretch down, or drag until the background reaches the bottom of the page.

You can click and drag the image anywhere to adjust where it’s placed in comparison to the printable content. For example, if the pattern isn’t showing exactly what you want, you can adjust its placement to see different parts of the background.

STEP 5: REORDER LAYERS

Click off of the image to deselect all elements.

Right-click on the background layer, hover over “Arrange” and click “Send to Back.”

That’s it! You might want to repeat step 4 if the background isn’t placed exactly how you want to. If the colors I like aren’t showing up under the printable the way I like to, I’ll fiddle with it for just a second to get it the way I like it. Feel free play with it until it’s how you want it.

Want to save the instructions for later?

Download the printable version of the instructions here!

GET THE PATTERNS!

Love the patterns in this set? They can be purchased HERE.

DOWNLOAD THE PRINTABLE!

Don’t forget to download the free printable to try this out on your own! You’ll find it in the free resource library after signing up below!