Quick Start: Print Place Cards from Google Sheets, Excel, or CSV
Learn the fastest PlaceCard.us workflow for importing spreadsheet data, mapping guest-list columns, and printing a complete PDF of place cards.
This guide covers the fastest route from spreadsheet to printable place cards. Use it when you already have a guest list in Google Sheets, Excel, or CSV and want one clean PDF for the full batch.
Step 1: Prepare Your Data
Before you start, ensure your data is organized in a spreadsheet.
- The first row should contain clear headers such as
Guest Name,Table,Seat, orMeal. - Each subsequent row should represent one guest or one printed card.
Supported formats:
- Excel (.xlsx, .xls)
- CSV (.csv)
- Google Sheets (via direct connection)
Step 2: Upload Data
- Go to the Place Card Maker.
- Click on the Data Source tab on the left sidebar.
- Select Upload File or Connect Google Sheets.
- Once uploaded, you will see your columns listed as available "Merge Fields".
Step 3: Choose the Card Layout
Pick the output that matches the event:
- 6 per sheet / 3.5" × 2" layout for a common printable place card setup
- Escort card layouts if you mainly need guest name + table assignment
- Custom sizes if your paper stock does not match a standard Avery template
To change dimensions, go to Page Settings (gear icon) and enter your custom width, height, and margins.
Step 4: Map Your Data to the Design
- Add a text element for the guest name.
- Bind that text to a column using Merge Fields.
- Add
Table,Seat, orMealonly if those details need to appear on the card. - Preview a few records before exporting the full PDF.
Step 5: Preview and Print
- Click the Preview button to see how your place cards look with real data.
- Flip through multiple records to confirm that long names and table numbers still fit.
- Click Download PDF.
- Open the PDF and print!
[!IMPORTANT] When printing, make sure your printer scaling is set to "Actual Size" or "100%". Do not select "Fit to Page". See Print Settings.
Where To Go Next
- Google Sheets Connection if your seating list is still changing
- Place Card Tutorial for a fuller walkthrough
- Place Card Sizes if you still need to decide between Avery-compatible formats
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