If you’ve ever uploaded a resource to Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) and wondered, “Wait, do I need to flatten this? Should I secure it too? What’s the difference?”—you’re not alone.
Flattening and securing are two of those TPT buzzwords that can feel intimidating at first. But once you understand what they mean (and why they matter), it’s actually pretty simple. And more importantly? Knowing how to do this correctly protects your work, respects the terms of use of clipart/font creators, and keeps your store in good standing.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Why Flattening and Securing Matter
When you buy clipart or fonts on TPT (or anywhere else), you’re agreeing to follow that creator’s terms of use. Many will specifically say that you need to flatten or secure your files before selling them.
Here’s why it matters:
- Protect your work. Flattening prevents buyers from lifting your text, images, and clipart directly out of your resource.
- Respect clipart/font creators. If you don’t flatten, someone could technically take the graphics you purchased and use them without buying their own license.
- Follow the rules. Not flattening or securing when required could technically put your store at risk of violating TPT policies.
Think of it this way: flattening and securing = insurance for your store.
Flatten vs. Save as PDF
Here’s the first myth we need to bust: saving as a PDF is not the same as flattening.
- Saving as a PDF: simply converts your slides or pages into a different file format. Text and clipart can often still be lifted.
- Flattening: merges every element on a page into a single image—so nothing can be pulled apart or edited.
That’s a big difference!
How to Flatten in Different Programs
The good news? Flattening isn’t hard—it just depends on what program you’re using.
PowerPoint
- Export each slide as an image (PNG is best).
- Reinsert each image as the background.
- OR—use Flat Pack (an add-on from Bearwood Labs). With one click, it flattens and secures for you. Total time saver.
Google Slides
- Similar process: export slides as images, then reinsert as backgrounds.
- If you prefer easier workflow, export your Google Slides file as a PowerPoint and then use Flat Pack.
Canva
- When saving as a PDF, check the box to flatten.
- Note: this flattens, but doesn’t secure.
What “Secure” Actually Means
Securing = adding a password to your PDF so it can’t be edited without that password.
Do you always need it? Not necessarily. But some clipart/font creators will require it as an extra layer of protection.
Options:
- Flat Pack – does flatten + secure in one click (PowerPoint only).
- Adobe Acrobat Pro – powerful but pricier, best if you already use it for contracts or business tasks.
- Free/low-cost PDF password protect tools – plenty of online options if you’re working in Canva or Google Slides.
Sharing Editable Resources Safely
What if you want your resource to be editable—like assessments or drag-and-drop activities?
Here are a couple pro tips:
- For Google Slides: share a forced copy link instead of the original file. That way, every buyer makes their own copy.
- For Canva: use a view-only link and give instructions for making a copy.
This way, your customers get the editable version, but your original stays safe.
The Best File Types for TPT
- PDF – the go-to for most resources.
- PowerPoint/Google Slides/Canva links – only if you’re intentionally selling editable files.
- Tip: Always double-check the terms of use from your clipart and font purchases before finalizing.
Final Thoughts
Flattening and securing might feel like “extra steps,” but once you’ve done it a few times (especially with the right tools), it becomes second nature. More importantly, it’s the best way to protect your hard work and the work of the clipart and font creators you rely on.
Remember:
- Flatten = turn each page into a single image.
- Secure = add a password for extra protection.
- Tools like Flat Pack make it easy, and free PDF password protectors work if you’re using Canva or Google Slides.
Once you’ve got this down, you’ll never have to second-guess whether you’re following the rules. You’ll be free to focus on what really matters—creating amazing resources for teachers and students.
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