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Add a Measurement Grid Overlay to PDFs Add a coordinate grid overlay to PDF pages.

PDF Grid Overlay illustration
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PDF Grid Overlay

Add a coordinate grid overlay to PDF pages.

1

Upload PDF

Drop your PDF file.

2

Configure Grid

Set grid size, color, line width, and labels.

3

Apply

Download PDF with grid overlay.

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What Is PDF Grid Overlay?

The PDF Grid Overlay tool adds a measurement grid with optional coordinate labels to every page of your PDF. Choose grid spacing (0.25", 0.5", or 1" increments), customize grid line color and width, and optionally show coordinate values. The grid helps with precise element placement, alignment verification, and document layout analysis. Coordinate labels appear along the edges showing point values. Perfect for designers, printers, and anyone who needs to verify or plan element positioning on PDF pages.

Why Use PDF Grid Overlay?

  • Multiple grid spacing options
  • Optional coordinate labels
  • Customizable color and line width
  • Helps verify element alignment and placement

Common Use Cases

Design Layout

Verify element positioning in designed documents.

Print Alignment

Check content placement relative to page edges.

Form Design

Plan form field positions using grid coordinates.

Quality Check

Verify consistent margins and spacing.

Technical Guide

Uses pdf-lib to draw grid lines and optional labels on each page. Vertical lines are drawn at x intervals from 0 to page width, horizontal lines from 0 to page height. Grid spacing is specified in points (18pt = 0.25", 36pt = 0.5", 72pt = 1"). Coordinate labels are rendered in 5pt Helvetica at each grid intersection along the edges. Line color is converted from hex to RGB. Supports customizable line width for visibility control.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    36pt (0.5") grid is good for general layout review
  • 2
    Use light colors so grid does not obscure content
  • 3
    Enable labels to read exact coordinates
  • 4
    0.3pt line width is visible but not obtrusive

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q What are the grid spacing options?
18pt (0.25 inch), 36pt (0.5 inch), and 72pt (1 inch).
Q What do the coordinate labels show?
Point values from the page origin (0,0 at bottom-left).
Q Can I remove the grid later?
The grid is permanently drawn. Keep the original file.
Q Does the grid affect printing?
Yes, grid lines will print. Use light colors for minimal impact.
Q Can I use a custom grid size?
Choose from three preset sizes. Custom sizing is planned.

About This Tool

PDF Grid Overlay is a free online tool by FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration or installation required.