How to Print Printable Planner Inserts at Home (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you love using printable planner inserts, you’ll be happy to know that printing them at home is super easy once you know how! Whether you’ve downloaded inserts from May Paper Co. or another brand, you can enjoy instant gratification — no waiting for the postman — and print exactly what you need, when you need it.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather your supplies. You don’t need fancy equipment — just a few basics:

• A printer (inkjet or laser both work)

• Paper — I recommend 100–120gsm for a smooth, professional feel

• PDF file of your printable insert

Step 1: Know Your Planner Size

First, make sure you’re printing the correct size for your planner. Common planner sizes include:

If you’re unsure, measure an existing insert or check your planner’s specs. The size matters because it determines how your file should be printed or trimmed. 

For the full May Paper Co. size guide, click here.

Step 2: Open the File in Adobe Acrobat

Always open your printable in Adobe Acrobat Reader (it’s free to download).
Avoid printing directly from your browser — browsers can slightly resize or shift the layout, which can make trimming or punching harder later.

Step 3: Set Up Your Printer

When you hit “Print,” take a moment to double-check these settings. Please note printer settings may vary depending on your operating system and printer.

1. Paper Size

   • Select the paper size you’re printing on (A4 or Letter).

   • If your paper is precut, set your paper dimensions to the same size as the paper. See May Paper Co. planner insert size guide here.

2. Page Sizing & Handling

   • Choose “Actual Size” or 100% Scale — not “Fit to Page.”

3. Orientation

   • Choose Auto Portrait/Landscape or match the insert layout.

4. Double-Sided Printing (Duplex)

   • If your printer supports duplex, choose Flip on Short Edge for two per page files. Use Flip on Long Edge for all other file types.

   • If printing manually, print odd pages first, flip the paper stack, and print even pages next.

Step 4: Trim to Size

Once printed, trim your pages along the cut lines using:

• A paper trimmer (for straight, clean edges)

• Or scissors (if you’re doing a quick test print)

Take your time here — neat trimming makes a big difference in how your planner looks and feels.

Step 5: Punch & Add to Your Planner

Use a punch that matches your planner system:

• 6-hole punch for ring-bound planners (like Filofax, Kikki.K, or LV)

• Disc punch for disc-bound systems

Tip: Test your hole alignment on one page before punching your full stack!

Quick Troubleshooting Guide

If something doesn’t look quite right when printing, here are a few quick fixes to try:

• Printing too large or too small?
  Make sure your print scale is set to “Actual Size” or 100% — not “Fit to Page.”

• Pages not centred?
  Check that you’re printing from Adobe Acrobat Reader instead of your web browser. Browsers often adjust margins automatically, which can shift your layout.

• Printing upside down when double-sided?
  Double-check your duplex setting. Use “Flip on Short Edge” if you are printing two per page files.

Pro Tips for Perfect Prints

• Print a test page before printing the full set.

• Use high-quality paper for smoother writing and less bleed-through.

• If you’re low on ink, switch to draft mode for lighter printing.

• Keep your inserts stored flat in a binder or envelope to avoid curling.

• Always back up your printable files so you can reprint anytime.
  

Final Thoughts

Printing your own planner inserts gives you complete control over your setup — from paper choice to layout and design. Once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature! You’ll save money, always have fresh inserts on hand, and can customise your planner exactly how you like it.

If you’re using May Paper Co. printables, thank you for supporting my small shop — I love seeing how you use them! Feel free to tag me on Instagram @maypaperco so I can share your beautiful setups.

Ready to try it yourself? Shop our printable inserts here -> SHOP NOW.