You want to add a quick stamp, like “Approved” or “Confidential,” but your PDF won’t let you mark it. We have a quick solution for it.
Stamps are useful for approval workflows, marking edits, or adding disclaimers. In this guide, we’ll show you how to add a stamp to a PDF using Smallpdf’s tools.
You’ll also learn how to make your custom stamp and what to do if your stamp won’t save.
How to Add a Stamp to a PDF File: Step-by-Step Guide
It’s simple and easy to add a stamp to PDF, just follow the steps:
Step 1: Open the PDF with Edit PDF
- Go to the Edit PDF
- Click Upload to import your PDF from your device, Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google Drive
- Wait a moment while the file loads in the editor
Step 2: Add the Stamp Using the Image Tool
- Click Image in the top toolbar
- Upload your stamp as a PNG or JPG (transparent PNGs work best)
- Drag and drop it to where you want it to appear on the page
Pro tip: Save time by preparing your stamp in advance as a clean PNG with no background.
Step 3: Resize, Duplicate, or Move the Stamp
- Click and drag the corners of the image to resize it
- Right-click to copy and paste it on other pages
- Use your mouse to align it exactly where you need it
How to Add a Stamp to a PDF File
This is the simplest way to add a stamp to a PDF without needing advanced software. You can move or remove it any time — unless the file is locked or flattened.
How to Create and Insert a Custom Stamp in a PDF?
You’re looking for something more unique than “Approved” or “Rejected”? Here’s how to add a custom stamp to your PDF. 1. Open your design tool of choice (like Canva, Word, or PowerPoint) 2. Design your stamp — keep it simple and legible 3. Export it as a PNG or JPG (transparent background is ideal) 4. Go to the PDF Annotator 5. Upload your PDF 6. Click Image, then Upload your custom stamp 7. Place it on your document, resize as needed, and save
Once done, Smallpdf lets you flatten the file if you want to make the stamp permanent. Use our Flatten PDF feature to prevent edits.
Flatten Your PDF to Prevent Edits
What Should I Do If My Stamp Won’t Stick to the PDF?
Sometimes, your stamp disappears after saving, or you can’t add one at all. Here’s what might be going on:
- The PDF is locked. Use Unlock PDF to remove restrictions.
- The file is certified or signed. Certified documents block edits for security reasons.
- Your stamp is on the wrong layer. Make sure to bring it to the front or re-add it via the editor. -You didn’t save your changes. After stamping, always click Apply Changes before downloading.
If you still have trouble, try re-uploading the file in Edit PDF and stamping again.
FAQs
1. How can I stamp a PDF for free?
You can use the Smallpdf Edit PDF to stamp a PDF for free. Just upload your file, insert a stamp image, and save.
2. Can we add stamps to multiple pages?
Yes. Once your stamp is added, you can copy and paste it onto any page. You can also use the image tool again to place it in a new spot.
3. Can I add stamps to a PDF file without editing the original file?
Yes. Upload a copy of your document and apply the stamp there. That way, the original file stays untouched.
4. Can I add a stamp to a scanned PDF file?
Absolutely. As long as the file opens in Smallpdf, you can add a stamp using the Edit PDF — even if it’s just a scanned page.
5. Is there a way to add a stamp to a PDF that won’t allow edits?
Try unlocking the file with Smallpdf Unlock PDF first. If it’s certified, edits may not be possible.
6. Why is my custom stamp blurry or pixelated when I insert it?
This usually happens if your image is too low resolution. Re-export your stamp at 300 dpi or higher for sharp results.
7. Will stamping a PDF affect my digital signature?
If the file is already signed, editing it may invalidate the signature. Add your stamp before signing, or re-sign it afterward.
