How to Make Clickable PDFs in Canva (Perfect for Freebies + Lead Magnets!)
- Rea Weeks
- Jul 29, 2025
- 3 min read
Ready to turn your Canva designs into interactive, clickable PDFs? Whether you're creating a juicy freebie for your email list or a lead magnet that actually converts, this tutorial is going to walk you through everything you need to know — no tech degree required. 🙌
Clickable PDFs are one of my absolute favorite ways to share value. They're easy to make, fun to design, and once you know how to add links? You're golden.
Let’s get into it!
💡 Wait… What’s a Clickable PDF?
Great question! A clickable PDF is exactly what it sounds like — a PDF file where the reader can click on text, images, or buttons to open links. You can link to:
Your Etsy shop
Your social media profiles
Bonus downloads or blog posts
Email addresses
Affiliate links
…and more!
This turns your static design into something interactive — like a mini website, but way easier to make.
✨ Why You Need One (Like, Yesterday)
If you're growing a brand, blog, or small biz, a clickable PDF can be a game-changer. Here’s why:
They build trust with high-quality, helpful freebies
They increase conversions with direct links to your shop, lead forms, or services
They look so polished — even if you’re designing on a budget
They’re super versatile: think worksheets, checklists, media kits, pricing guides, portfolios… you name it.
I personally use clickable PDFs as both freebies and paid products in my Etsy shop (psst: you can check out my shop right here). I’ve even made clickable journaling workbooks, content planners, and seasonal scrapbooking printables.
🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Make a Clickable PDF in Canva
Let’s break it down real simple.
1. Design Your Layout in Canva
Create a new design in Canva. A good size to start with is 8.5 x 11 in (US Letter) or A4 if you're international.
Design your page like you would any other printable — use headings, images, icons, shapes, and text.
Pro tip: If you're creating a lead magnet, make sure it's branded and visually cohesive with the rest of your content!
2. Add Links to Text or Elements
Here’s the magic part:
Click the text or element you want to make clickable
In the top right corner, click the 🔗 Link icon
Paste your URL (make sure to include the full “https://”)
Hit Enter, and boom — it’s linked!
You can add links to:
Text boxes
Images
Buttons
Icons
Want to link to an email? Use this format: mailto:youremail@example.com
3. Download as a PDF (IMPORTANT!)
This step matters! When your design is ready to go, click Share > Download and choose:
File Type: PDF Standard
Make sure “Flatten PDF” is unchecked if Canva gives you the option
Click Download
You now have a clickable PDF ready to send, upload, or embed!
🧁 A Few Extra Tips Before You Go
Keep links clear and intentional. Don’t overload your pages — guide your reader where you want them to go.
Use call-to-action buttons. Like “Click Here” or “Download Now” to boost engagement.
Test your PDF. Open it up after downloading and make sure all your links work!
💌 Join My Mailing List for Freebies + Creative Prompts
Want a free character profile template to get started?Join my email list and get:
A printable + digital character sheet
Monthly creative freebies and Canva tips
First access to new Etsy launches
Encouraging emails for your writing + storytelling journey
Let’s make writing feel like a cozy adventure again. ✍️✨
🛍️ Shop My Canva Templates + Printables
If you love designing in Canva (or you want to skip the hard part), I’ve created tons of done-for-you templates and printables to help you build your brand and connect with your audience.
You'll find everything from brand kits to journaling pages, scrapbooking paper, teacher planners, and more!
✨ Let’s Wrap This Up
🌟 Final Thoughts
Clickable PDFs are a powerful, low-effort way to look more professional and connect with your audience. Whether you’re giving them away as freebies or using them to upsell your products, the ability to add links directly inside your Canva design is a total game-changer.
If this tutorial helped you, I’d love to see what you create — tag me on socials or shoot me a DM!
Rea 🌻Creator of A Rea of Treasures
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