How to create personalised name badges from an Excel spreadsheet
When you need name badges for a conference, training course or business event, you do not have to create each one separately. A single badge design can be combined with an Excel spreadsheet to produce a complete personalised set.
Set up your spreadsheet
- Use one row for each person.
- Add clear headings such as first name, last name, job title, company and badge type.
- Keep each piece of information in a separate column.
- Avoid merged cells, blank rows and unnecessary notes.
Check the wording carefully
- Enter names and details exactly as they should be printed.
- Check spelling, capital letters, job titles and company names.
- Include titles such as Dr or Professor where required.
- Avoid typing names entirely in capitals unless that is the intended style.
Keep badges easy to read
- A name, company and short job title will usually be enough.
- Shorten very long job titles where possible.
- Add a badge type column for categories such as attendee, speaker, exhibitor, organiser or media.
- Different categories can use different colours while keeping the same overall design.
Supply your badge artwork
- Your spreadsheet only needs to contain the details that change.
- Supply logos, colours and background artwork separately.
- For an 85 × 54mm badge, full-bleed artwork should measure 91 × 60mm.
- This includes 3mm bleed on every edge.
Check the PDF proof
Before approving your badges, check for:
- Misspelled or missing names
- Duplicate entries
- Incorrect badge types
- Missing company names or job titles
- Text that is too long or too small
It can be helpful to ask someone else to compare the proof with the original attendee list.
Allow for late additions
- Event lists often change at the last minute.
- Order a few blank cards for unexpected attendees.
- Spare badge holders can also be useful on the day.
You can send us your Excel spreadsheet and background design, and we will create the personalised badges for you. Choose compact pin-and-clip badges or lanyard name badges for larger conferences and exhibitions.