Learn how to customize PDF templates in Katana using the built-in PDF Editor powered by PDF Generator API.
Note: Template customization is only available for users on the Standard, Professional, or Professional Plus plans.
What is the PDF Editor?
The PDF Editor is a drag-and-drop tool integrated with Katana, allowing you to create and modify templates for your PDF printouts — such as sales orders, packing lists, or invoices.
No personal or business data is shared with the PDF Editor.
It uses demo data and base templates, so you never need to start from scratch.
Key elements of the PDF Editor interface
Component | Description |
1. Style toolbar | Adjust page layout, margins, fonts, colors, and alignment. |
2. Component toolbar | Drag-and-drop elements like text, barcodes, tables, and containers. |
3. Component properties | Map Katana data fields to components and manage logic via expressions. |
4. Layout editor | The main area where you design your template’s layout. |
5. Menu bar | Save templates and toggle between Editor, Preview, and Data views. |
Note: The PDF Editor does not auto-save. Click the Save icon or use Ctrl/Cmd + S regularly.
How it works
When customizing a template, you're working with:
Layout design: Drag components to place headers, logos, data tables, etc.
Data binding: Match fields from Katana (like SO number, batch codes, or customer name) to components.
Expression logic: Apply conditions using the built-in expression language. For example, show/hide address fields or auto-format SKUs.
Want to understand field formatting or HTML content in Katana templates? Check out the field formatting guide.
Tutorials and resources
Start with these essentials:
Watch the overview video by PDF Generator API:
Sample templates for inspiration:
Samples are found here
Invoice-styled sales order
Packing list with barcodes
More samples of documents also found on PDF Generator API gallery: https://pdfgeneratorapi.com/example-documents
How-to tutorials for basic components
Need help?
The PDF Generator API support center is a great resource if you’re stuck:
👉 https://support.pdfgeneratorapi.com/en/
Or reach out to Katana Support for help getting started with print templates.
Useful videos
Your feedback is invaluable. Let us know your thoughts on this article or anything in Katana you'd like to see improved: [email protected]