🖱️ How to Design Interactive PDFs Using Canva (Yes, It’s Easier Than You Think!)

Hey, creative friend!

Have you ever downloaded a digital worksheet or planner where you could click, type, or even jump to another page—all from inside the PDF? That’s the magic of an interactive PDF, and today, I’m showing you how to create one in Canva — no fancy software or tech headaches required!

Whether you're making:

• A digital planner 🗓️

• A fillable workbook 📝

• A guided journal 📓

• Or even a clickable product catalog 🛍️

You can design it all using Canva — and it’s way easier (and way more fun) than it sounds!

Let’s dive in, step-by-step.

✨ What Is an Interactive PDF?

An interactive PDF is a document that allows users to engage with the content:

• Type directly into text fields

• Click on links or navigation buttons

• Jump between sections or external websites

They’re perfect for digital products, freebies, or course materials. Best of all, Canva makes the process super beginner-friendly!

🎨 Step-by-Step: Design Your Interactive PDF in Canva

Step 1: Set Up Your Document

• Go to Canva

• Choose a custom size (try 8.5 x 11 in. for a standard page)

• Start with a blank canvas or use a template — Canva has tons!

💡 Want a shortcut? Use one of my pre-designed PDF templates from A Rea of Treasures on Etsy!

Step 2: Add Content & Structure

Add your:

• Titles & section headers

• Paragraph text or questions

• Boxes where users will type (these will become form fields later!)

• Decorative elements or digital paper backgrounds

Keep your fonts readable and your layout clean. Less is more when it comes to functional PDFs!

Step 3: Add Clickable Links (Navigation or External)

Here’s where your PDF becomes interactive:

• Highlight text or click an element (like a button)

• Click the 🔗 link icon on the top Canva toolbar

• Paste in a URL (for websites) or use "Page #" for internal navigation

  Example: Want to create a Table of Contents that jumps to a specific page? Link each button or text box to a page in your design!

This works great for:

• Indexes

• Menus

• Product catalogs

• Planners with monthly tabs

Step 4: Download as a PDF (Important!)

Once you're done designing:

• Click "Share" > "Download"

• Choose PDF Standard or PDF Print

• Check the box that says “Flatten PDF” OFF (important so links remain clickable!)

🎉 Your interactive PDF is ready to go!

💡 Bonus Tips to Elevate Your Design

• Use icons and buttons to guide user interaction

• Create a matching cover page and thank-you page

• Add form field instructions like “Type here” or “Click to navigate”

• Include your branding elements for a professional finish

💌 Want Free Canva Templates And More Tips?

👉 Join my email list 

Subscribers also receive:

• Monthly creative freebies

• Canva tutorials

• Early access to new shop drops

• VIP-only coupon codes

✨ Click here to join now!

🛍️ Need Design Elements for Your PDF?

From digital paper backgrounds to clipart and pre-made templates, my shop is packed with pieces to help you create gorgeous, on-brand PDFs — whether you’re designing for your business or just for fun!

👉 Explore A Rea of Treasures on Etsy

Interactive PDFs are one of the best ways to bring your content to life — and thanks to Canva, you can make them without the tech overwhelm. So open up a fresh design, add some sparkle, and start creating something your audience will love to click through.

You've got this — and I can’t wait to see what you create!

With creativity & encouragement,

Rea 🌻Creator of A Rea of Treasures