watermark type
Watermark only the first page of a PDF
You can apply a watermark to any subset of pages: only the first page, only the last, a range like 1-3, or all odd or even pages. This is how you mark a cover sheet without stamping every page, or put a footer on the body of a report while leaving the title page clean.
First page only — the cover carries the mark, the body stays clean
The five page options
| Option | Applies the watermark to | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| All pages | Every page (default) | Standard confidential or draft marking |
| First page | Page 1 only | Marking a cover sheet or title page |
| Last page | Final page only | Signature or approval pages |
| Odd pages | 1, 3, 5, … | Alternating layouts, duplex printing |
| Even pages | 2, 4, 6, … | Alternating layouts, duplex printing |
| Range | Whatever you type, e.g. 1-3, 5, 8-10 | Leaving a cover page clean |
Marking a cover sheet without stamping the whole document
The most common request is “I want the first page to say DRAFT, but I want the rest of the document to look normal.” Set Pages to First page and the mark is applied once.
The mirror image — a clean cover with a footer on every other page — is done by setting Pages to a range that starts at 2, for example 2-99, or by making two passes: one job for the cover, one for the body. Two passes are useful when you want a different style on the cover, such as a large diagonal mark on page 1 and a small footer on the rest.
Mixing styles across a document
To combine styles, run the tool twice on the same file. Watermark page 1 with a diagonal mark and download it, then upload the result and add a footer to pages 2 onward. Watermarks stack cleanly because each pass adds a new layer rather than replacing what is already there.
Frequently asked questions
How do I watermark only the first page of a PDF?
Upload the PDF, open More options, and set Pages to First page. Only page 1 is marked; every other page is left exactly as it was. The same menu gives you Last page, Odd pages, Even pages and a custom range such as 1-3, 5, 8-10.
What page numbering do you use for a range?
Numbering always starts at 1 for the first page of the file, counting every page including covers, regardless of any page numbers printed inside your document. If your document's own numbering starts later, count the physical pages instead of the printed labels.
Can I apply two different watermarks to different parts of one PDF?
Yes, by running two jobs. Watermark the pages you want with the first style and download the result, then upload that watermarked file and apply the second style to a different page range. Each pass adds a layer rather than overwriting the previous one.