How to Add a Picture as a Background in Microsoft Word 2010

Microsoft Word 2010 offers several methods to insert a picture as a background, allowing for more creative and visually appealing documents. This article covers five common techniques, including adding a stock watermark, custom image watermark, custom text watermark, background picture, and changing the background color. Each method is detailed with step-by-step instructions to help users achieve their desired look.

Method 1: Adding a Stock Watermark

1. Open Microsoft Word. The icon resembles a blue background with a white symbol.

2. Create a new document by clicking 'Blank Document' or edit an existing one by double-clicking the document in question.

3. Click on the 'Design' tab, located in the top-left corner of the Word window, to the right of the 'Home' tab.

4. Select the 'Watermark' option, which is in the top-right side of the Word toolbar near the top of the window.

5. Choose one of the available watermark templates. You can select from text placeholders to apply to your background.

6. Add text to your document as usual. The watermark will appear in the background of your document, with your text overlaying it.

Note: To remove the watermark, click on the bottom of the watermark templates drop-down menu and select the option to remove it.

Method 2: Adding a Custom Image Watermark

1. Follow the same steps as in Method 1 to open Microsoft Word and open a new document.

2. Click on the 'Design' tab and then 'Watermark', followed by 'Custom Watermark'.

3. In the settings, click the circle next to 'Picture' to select your image source.

4. Choose 'Select Picture', then 'From a File', and click on the desired image in your file explorer.

5. Click 'Insert' to apply the image as a watermark and then 'OK' to confirm your changes.

6. Adjust the image size if needed and add your text as usual.

Tip: If the picture is too light or dark, your text color may need to be changed for better visibility.

Method 3: Adding a Custom Text Watermark

1. Follow the initial steps of Method 1 to open Microsoft Word and a new document.

2. Click on the 'Design' tab and then 'Watermark', followed by 'Custom Watermark'.

3. In the settings, click the circle next to 'Text' to select your custom text.

4. Type your watermark text in the designated box. You can adjust the style, size, and color of the text.

5. Check or uncheck the box next to 'Show Text as Watermark' to apply or remove the watermark effect.

6. Click 'OK' to implement your changes and add your text as usual.

Method 4: Adding a Background Picture

1. Open Microsoft Word and a new document.
2. Click on the 'Design' tab and then 'Page Color'.
3. Click 'Fill Effects' and then 'Picture'.
4. Click 'Select Picture', then 'From a File', and choose your desired image.

5. Click 'Insert' to apply the picture as a background.
6. Add your text as usual and adjust the font color to remain visible.

Method 5: Changing the Background Color

1. Open Microsoft Word and a new document.
2. Click on the 'Design' tab and then 'Page Color'.
3. Click 'Fill Effects' and then 'Solid Fill'.
4. Choose a color, or create a custom color by clicking the gradient slider.
5. Apply your chosen color as the background.

By using these methods, you can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your Microsoft Word 2010 documents and make them more visually engaging. Experiment with different features to find the perfect look for your documents.