Watermark on Excel File

💧 How to Add a Watermark in Excel

Watermarks are useful for labeling sheets with DRAFT, CONFIDENTIAL, or adding logos in the background of reports. Excel doesn’t have a built-in watermark feature, but you can achieve the same effect using Header & Footer images or WordArt/Text Boxes.

📷 Method 1 – Using Header & Footer (Image Watermark)

Step 1 – Open the Insert Tab

• Open your Excel workbook.
• Click the Insert tab on the Ribbon.

Step 2 – Open Header & Footer Tools

• In the Text group, click Text.
• Select Header & Footer.
• Excel will switch to Page Layout view.

Step 3 – Choose Placement

• You’ll see three header sections: Left, Center, Right.
• Click inside the Center section (recommended).

Step 4 – Insert the Picture

• The Header & Footer tab will appear.
• Click Picture in the Header & Footer Elements group.
• Choose an image from:
  • This Device (upload from your computer)
  • Stock Images
  • Online Pictures
• Select your watermark image (e.g., company logo or faded DRAFT image).

Step 5 – Confirm Insertion

• Excel will insert the code &[Picture] into the header.
• Click anywhere outside the header. The image appears as a background watermark.

Step 6 – Adjust if Needed

Excel does not allow resizing or moving header images directly. If adjustments are required:

• Resize the image in an editor (Paint, Photoshop, etc.) before inserting it.
• For text-based watermarks, use WordArt/Text Box (see Method 2).

🔤 Method 2 – Using WordArt or Text Box (Text Watermark)

If you want a text-based watermark (e.g., “CONFIDENTIAL” or “DRAFT”):

1. Go to Insert > WordArt or Insert > Text Box.
2. Type your watermark text.
3. Format it:
   • Right-click and choose Format Shape.
   • Adjust Transparency and set the color to gray.
   • Rotate diagonally for a classic watermark effect.
4. Move it where you want on the sheet.
5. If it covers content, right-click → Send to Back.

⚠️ Limitations & Notes

• Excel watermarks are visual only — they do not protect data.
• Watermarks may shift or repeat if the sheet has multiple printed pages.
• If printing, check Print Preview to confirm the watermark looks correct before finalizing.

📞 Need Help?

If you need assistance formatting a watermark, contact IT Support:
support@reedsport.k12.or.us