Google Docs doesn’t let you change the thickness of a line added with Insert > Horizontal line. To get a thicker (or thinner) line, use a paragraph border instead: click on a blank line, choose Format > Paragraph styles > Borders and shading, select the bottom border position, pick a Border width like 3pt, and click Apply. You can also draw a line in Insert > Drawing and set its line weight.
Here’s how each method works, with tips for changing line color and style too.
Method 1: Use a paragraph border (best option)
- Click on an empty line where you want the horizontal line.
- Click Format > Paragraph styles > Borders and shading.
- Under Position, click the bottom border button.
- Choose a Border width, such as 2pt, 3pt, or 6pt.
- Pick a Border color and Border dash style if you like, then click Apply.
The line stretches from margin to margin and moves with the text. To remove it, open Borders and shading again and click Reset.
Method 2: Draw a line
- Click Insert > Drawing > New.
- Click the Line tool, hold Shift, and drag to draw a straight line.
- Click the Line weight button (three stacked lines) and choose a thickness. Use Line color and Line dash for more styles.
- Click Save and close.
Drawings are handy for short or decorative lines. Double-click the drawing later to edit it.
Method 3: Use a one-cell table
- Click Insert > Table and choose a 1 x 1 table.
- Right-click the table and choose Table properties.
- Set the border width, then set the top, left, and right borders to 0pt so only the bottom shows.
Why can’t I change the thickness of Insert > Horizontal line?
The built-in horizontal line has a fixed style. You can only move or delete it. Click just after the line and press Backspace to remove it, then use one of the methods above.
Related: Remove a horizontal line in Google Docs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change the color of a horizontal line?
Not with Insert > Horizontal line. Use a paragraph border or drawing, which both let you pick any color.
Can I make a double line?
Google Docs borders don’t offer a double style. Add a border to two consecutive short paragraphs, or draw two lines in a drawing.
Does this work in the Google Docs app?
The mobile app can insert a horizontal line, but paragraph borders and drawings need to be created on a computer.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.