Create hidden and nonprinting objects

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to use the Attributes panel to prevent objects from printing or exporting in Adobe InDesign.

The Attributes panel allows you to hide objects or mark them as nonprinting, so they remain in the document without appearing in printed or exported output. Hidden objects are removed from view and cannot be selected, while nonprinting objects remain visible onscreen for reference, such as notes, guides, or layout markers. Both options can be reversed at any time without affecting the document structure.

Hide and reveal objects

Select the object you want to hide.

Select Object > Hide.

Select Object > Show All on Spread to reveal all hidden objects on the current spread and make them selectable again.

Note

Hidden objects on other spreads remain hidden. You must navigate to each spread and use the Show All on Spread command to reveal objects throughout your document.

Create nonprinting objects

Select the object or text frame that you want to exclude from printing.

Select Window > Output > Attributes.

Select Nonprinting.

To restore normal printing behavior, select the object or text frame again, then clear the Nonprinting option in the Attributes panel.