How to Create a PDF from a Template
ZenBuild's PDF Creator includes a canvas editor with pre-built templates for invoices, receipts, and more. Define variables for dynamic content, fill in values, and export pixel-perfect PDFs. Save templates to reuse them or generate PDFs programmatically via the API.
Step-by-step guide
Choose a template
Open the PDF Creator to see the template gallery. Pick from pre-built system templates like Invoice, Receipt, Pay Stub, Rental Agreement, and more — or start from a blank canvas and design your own. Each template comes with variables already defined for dynamic content like names, dates, and line items.
Fill in your details and download
After selecting a template, you'll see a form on the left with fields for each variable and a live preview on the right. Fill in your business details, client information, line items, and any other fields. The preview updates in real time as you type. When everything looks right, click Download PDF to export a polished, pixel-perfect document.
Tools for this task
Merge PDF
Combine multiple PDF files into one document. Drag and drop to reorder pages before merging.
Compress PDF
Reduce PDF file size without losing quality. Perfect for email attachments and faster uploads.
Image to PDF
Convert images (JPG, PNG, WebP) to PDF. Combine multiple images into a single PDF document.
Related templates
Tips
- Use system templates (invoice, receipt, paystub) as starting points to save time
- Set up computed variables for automatic calculations like totals and tax amounts
- Save templates to your account so you can reuse them across projects
- Use the API endpoint to generate PDFs programmatically from external systems
- Test with sample data before sending to clients to catch any formatting issues
Frequently asked questions
What elements can I add to a PDF template?
The canvas editor supports text, headings, images, lines, rectangles, and tables. Tables can be bound to data variables for dynamic row expansion - perfect for line items on invoices and receipts.
Can I automate PDF generation?
Yes. ZenBuild's REST API includes a PDF create endpoint that accepts a template ID and variable values. You can integrate this into any workflow to generate PDFs programmatically.
What page sizes are supported?
The editor supports Letter, A4, Legal, and other standard page sizes in both portrait and landscape orientation.
Related guides
Ready to get started?
Try ZenBuild free - forms, PDF tools, templates, and more.