How to Create a Printable Using Microsoft Word

Over the past week, we’ve looked at how to create a printable using PicMonkey and PowerPoint. Today, I’d like to share with you the step by step instructions on how to create a printable using Microsoft Word. Please do keep in mind the tips I shared in the previous 2 tutorials when you create your printable.

In the example below, I will be using Microsoft Word to create a simple printable where you can jot down your freebie ideas as you work through this challenge.

Step 1: Open new document

Open Microsoft Word. By default it should open a new blank document; or you can select ‘New’ from the ‘File’ menu.

Step 2: Choose the page orientation

Select the appropriate orientation for your printable from the ‘Page Layout’ menu.

Step 3: Set the background

On the ‘Page Layout’ menu, go to ‘Page Colors’ option and click on ‘Fill Effects’.

Click on ‘Pattern’ – the third tab in the dialog box.

Note: If you want to use an existing image as a background for your printable, you’ll have to select the fourth option ‘Picture’ and upload the image from your computer.

Select an appropriate background pattern and the colors for your printable.

Step 4: Save the file.

Click on the ‘Save’ icon to save the file.

Step 5: Add the title.

Select the ‘Table’ option from the ‘Insert’ menu and insert a table with one cell (the first square).

Change the table’s appearance using the ‘Table Tools’.

Type your printable’s title in the newly created table, and change it’s font and color as desired.

Add a few embellishments to make the heading look pretty. I’ve added flowers using a dingbats font.

Step 6: Insert another table.

This is to add more elements to flesh out the rest of your printable.

Right-click on the table to add more rows and columns if required.

Style the new table using ‘Table Tools’.

Add the column headings and additional embellishments as required.

Step 7: Add the footer.

Add a footer to your printable from the ‘Insert’ menu.

Edit the footer to include your website and copyright details.

Step 8: Insert more shapes.

Add additional shapes with text as required. I’ve chosen a rectangle shape from the ‘Insert’ menu.

Draw the rectangle where you want it, and then change its color/style.

Right-click on the rectangle and choose the ‘Add Text’ option.

You can now type in the text and change it’s style as desired.

We are now done, and the final printable is ready!

Step 9: Save as PDF.

Select the ‘Save As’ option from the ‘File’ menu to save the printable.

Choose the file type as PDF and click ‘Save’. Your printable is now saved as a PDF and can be easily shared with your readers.

Note: Older versions of Microsoft Word may not have the option to save as PDF. In that case, you’ll need to use a PDF converter to convert your Word file into a PDF. Or you can download an add-in from Microsoft that will help you do the PDF conversion.

Click on the image below to download the Freebie Ideas printable!

Today’s Challenge: Create a simple printable using Microsoft Word. Even if you’re not planning to give it away to your audience, it is still good practice!

Have you ever tried creating a printable with PowerPoint?
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