How To Create a Name Badge Template in Word - Updated 2024

*Updated on 30 September 2024*

From awkward introductions to seamless connections, name badges are the unsung heroes of any event. Whether it’s a corporate conference, workshop, or social gathering, corporate event name badges help people engage, make connections, and remember who they’ve met. But let’s face it, designing them from scratch can feel a bit daunting. Enter Microsoft Word—your new best friend for making professional, custom name badges quickly and easily.

So, ditch those “Hello, my name is…” stickers and step up your event name badge game. In this guide, I’ll walk you through creating custom, sustainable event name badges that look great and promote your brand. Best of all? You can do it all in Microsoft Word—no fancy design software required!

Let's get started.

Step 1: Picking the Perfect Name Badge

Feeling overwhelmed by the A6 and A7 size options?

Here's the key differences:

• A7 (74mm x 105mm): This is the standard name tag size. Smaller, perfect for corporate event name badges where badge visibility is important.

• A6 (105mm x 148mm): More real estate for information and design, ideal for conferences or events with detailed needs like logos, QR codes, and multiple lines of text.

Ultimately, the best size depends on your event's needs and aesthetics.

Pro tip: If you're not sure which size fits best, start with A7 name badges and see how it looks with your content and design. If things feel cramped, you can upgrade to A6.

Portrait vs. Landscape:

Choose the orientation that best accommodates your content and design preferences.

• Portrait: Offers more vertical space, ideal for displaying longer names, titles, or additional information.

• Landscape: badges, provide more horizontal space for larger logos, a sponsor logo strip or QR codes.

Step 2: Setting Up in Word

There are two easy methods to create your event name tags in Word:

Method 1: Using Labels

1. Open Word and go to the "Mailings" tab. Click "Labels."

2. Choose "Options" and select "New Label." Name it "A6 Badge" or "A7 Badge."

3. Enter the correct dimensions:

   • A6: 105mm x 148mm

   • A7: 74mm x 105mm

4. Set how many badges you want per sheet, then hit "OK."

Method 2: Tables

1. Open Word and choose "File" < "Page Setup".

2. Select Paper Size < Go to the "Layout" tab, select "Page Size," then "Manage Custom Sizes" and enter the measurements for A6 or A7.

3. Click "Insert" > "Table," and set the number of rows and columns for your badges.

4. Adjust the cell sizes to fit your chosen badge dimensions and align everything neatly.

Don't forget to set the document orientation (portrait or landscape) based on your chosen badge layout and information display. Portrait is ideal for longer text. Landscape works well for larger visuals.

Step 3: Designing Your Event Name Badge

Now’s the time to get creative. Use the "Insert" tab to add text, logos, shapes, and anything else you want. Keep it clean and simple—your conference name badges should be readable at a glance.

What to Include:

• Company or event logo: Branding is key!

• Attendee's full name: Make it the star of the show—bold, large, and front and centre.

• Job title and company: A smaller, supporting role.

Design Tips:

• QR Codes: Link to your event’s website, schedule, or feedback form to add an interactive element.

• Shapes and borders: Frame your text to give the badges a sleek look.

Need More Tips? See our indepth design guide with visuals

Step 4: Colour Psychology for Your Badges

Choosing the right colours is crucial. Colour can influence how attendees perceive your event, so choose wisely.

Keep your palette simple with two or three colours. Also, make sure your text stands out clearly against the background for easy readability.

Colour Meanings:

• Blue: Trustworthiness, reliability, professionalism

• Green: Growth, harmony, sustainability

• Red: Energy, excitement, passion (use sparingly)

• Yellow: Optimism, creativity, warmth

• Orange: Enthusiasm, friendliness, sociability

Give Pause for Thought:

• Balance: Use a maximum of 2-3 main colours for a clean and unified look.

• Consider contrast: Ensure text and important information stand out against the background colour.

• Think about accessibility: Avoid colour combinations that might create difficulties for people with color vision deficiencies.

• Test and refine: Don't be afraid to experiment and get feedback on your colour choices before finalising your design.

• Brand Identity: Align your colour choices with your brand's existing palette to create a cohesive look and reinforce recognition.

• Event Theme: Consider the overall mood and theme of your event. For example, a formal conference might call for sophisticated blues or greens, while a fun networking event could benefit from vibrant oranges or yellows.

• Target Audience: Think about your attendees' demographics and preferences. Certain colours might resonate better with different age groups or professions.

Remember, colour is a powerful tool that can enhance your name badges and contribute to a positive overall event experience.

Step 4: Printing and Testing

Always, Always Test First!

Before printing your badges in bulk, always print a test page. This step is crucial for checking the alignment and overall design.

Final Printing

Once you're satisfied with the test print, load your badge paper into the printer and print your badges. If you're using sticker paper, make sure it's positioned correctly to avoid printing mishaps.

Tips For Success

• Simplicity is Key: Remember, the primary function of a name badge is to communicate key information quickly and clearly. Avoid overcrowding your design with unnecessary elements.

• Seek Feedback: Before finalising your badges, ask for feedback from colleagues or friends. They might offer valuable insights or catch errors you've missed.

• Event-Specific Design: Tailor your badge design to suit the tone and style of your event. Formal events need a simple design, but casual gatherings allow for more creativity and playfulness in your designs.

• Paper: Use high-quality paper for a polished look.

• Our Environment: Guests don't like to see waste. Choose name badge and lanyard materials with the environment in mind. Consider what happens to the badges after an event. Do they end up in the trash or can they be recycled? Avoid using plastics altogether.

• Resources: There are loads of beautiful name badge designs online at Dribble or Behance. Check them out for inspiration.

Final Thoughts

Creating event name badges in Microsoft Word is not only easy but also an effective way to add a professional touch to your event. A well-designed badge serves as a tool for connection, brand visibility, and makes your event stand out. So, whether it’s a corporate event or a fun networking gathering, your attention to detail in badge design will surely be appreciated.

Need eco-friendly conference name badges for your next event? We offer plantable and recyclable name badges and biodegradable lanyards —designed with sustainability in mind. Check out our full range of eco friendly products than elevate your next event AND reduce your carbon footprint.