A Word text box can have a visible border even when you only want the text. Remove the shape outline rather than deleting the text box itself.
Remove the border from a text box
- Open the Word document.
- Select the text box by clicking its outer edge.
- Open the Shape Format tab.
- Select Shape Outline.
- Choose No Outline.
The text box remains in the document, but its border should no longer print or appear as a normal shape outline.
If you still see a line
Make sure you selected the text box itself rather than text inside it. A line can also come from a separate shape, paragraph border, table border, or another object positioned near the box.
When the text box is selected for editing, Word may show a temporary boundary or selection handles so you can move and resize it. Those editing indicators are not necessarily printable borders. Use Print Preview when you need to confirm what will appear on paper or in a PDF.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.