Changing the color of a page in Microsoft Word is an easy and quick way to make your document stand out or match a specific theme. All you need to do is navigate to the "Design" tab, select "Page Color," and choose your desired color from the palette. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring you can add a splash of color to your pages with ease.
How to Change the Color of a Page in Word
This section will walk you through the steps to change the color of a page in Microsoft Word. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to give your document a more personalized and visually appealing look.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
Start by opening Microsoft Word on your computer.
Before you can change any settings, you need to have the Word application open and ready. If you already have a document you want to work with, open that file. Otherwise, start a new document.
Step 2: Go to the Design Tab
Navigate to the "Design" tab on the toolbar.
The "Design" tab is where you’ll find various tools to enhance the appearance of your document. Once you’re on this tab, you’re just a few clicks away from changing the page color.
Step 3: Click on Page Color
In the "Design" tab, locate the "Page Color" button and click on it.
This button is usually represented by an image of a paint bucket. Clicking it will open a palette of color options for you to choose from.
Step 4: Choose Your Desired Color
Select the color you want from the palette.
You’ll see a range of colors in the menu. Hover over each one to see a preview of how it will look on your page. Once you find one you like, click it to apply the color.
Step 5: Apply to All Pages (Optional)
If you want the same color on all pages, make sure it’s applied across your entire document.
After you’ve selected your color, Word will automatically apply it to the current page. If you want all pages to have the same color, there’s nothing more you need to do. However, if you’re only changing specific pages, you’ll need to repeat these steps for each one.
After you complete these steps, your document will reflect the new page color, giving it a distinctive and personalized look. Now, let’s dive into some additional tips to help you make the most out of changing page colors in Word.
Tips for Changing the Color of a Page in Word
- Experiment with Different Colors: Don’t hesitate to try out various colors to see which one suits your document best.
- Use Theme Colors: Opt for theme colors if you want to ensure your page color complements other design elements.
- Check Print Settings: Be aware that not all printers can print background colors. Check your printer settings if you plan to print the document.
- Use Page Borders: Enhance the look further by adding page borders that complement your page color.
- Adjust Opacity: If the color is too bold, consider adjusting the opacity to make it more subtle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the color of only one page in a Word document?
Yes, but it requires using sections and adding a background color to each section individually.
Will the page color show when I print the document?
It depends on your printer settings. Some printers might not print page colors by default, so you may need to adjust the settings.
Can I use a custom color?
Yes, you can select "More Colors" from the palette to input a custom RGB or HEX code.
Does changing the page color affect text readability?
It can. Make sure the text color contrasts well with the page color to ensure readability.
Can I remove the page color once it’s applied?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps and choose "No Color" to revert to the default white background.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Go to the Design Tab.
- Click on Page Color.
- Choose Your Desired Color.
- Apply to All Pages (Optional).
Conclusion
Changing the color of a page in Word is a simple yet powerful way to make your documents more engaging and visually appealing. Whether you’re aiming for a professional look or something more creative, this feature offers a quick solution. Remember that the readability of your text is crucial, so always choose a page color that contrasts well with your text.
Feel free to experiment with different shades and themes to find what works best for your needs. If you’re looking for more advanced customization options, explore other features in the "Design" tab. Happy editing!

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.