You added comments, signed the document, filled in form fields. Now you want to send a final version where none of that can be undone or edited by the recipient.
Flattening fuses every layer — annotations, form fields, signatures, watermarks — into the page content. The result is a single static layer.
What flattening does
Layered PDFs have form fields, comments, and annotations as separate, editable elements. The recipient can change them, remove them, or strip them entirely.
Flattening merges all that into the page background. Looks identical; behaves as a static image of the page. No more editing.
Flatten in the editor
Open the PDF in Flint's editor and choose Flatten. The tool merges every overlay into the page content.
For specific layers only (flatten signatures but keep form fields editable, for instance), some editors allow partial flattening.
When to flatten
Before sending a final signed contract. Before publishing a watermarked or stamped document. Before archiving a filled form. Anywhere you want the visible state to be the permanent state.
Don't flatten if the recipient needs to edit or fill anything. Once flattened, no one can change it without redacting and re-stamping.
FAQ
Will flattening reduce file size?
Sometimes. Removing the editable structures cuts a bit of overhead. Major reduction comes from compressing after flattening.
Can flattening be undone?
No. Save a copy of the original before flattening if you might want to edit later.
Will flattened PDFs work everywhere?
Yes. The output is a standard PDF that opens identically in any reader.
What's the difference between flattening and locking?
Flattening merges layers; locking (via password) restricts opening or editing. Use both for maximum protection.
Flattening turns a layered document into a final document. Open the file in Flint's editor and lock the visible state.