Word Search Maker
Word Search Maker
Type your words, customize, and generate a printable puzzle with an answer key.
Setup
Tip: Use Print / PDF and choose “Save as PDF” to download. Toggle the answer key before printing to make a solution sheet.
About
Want a word search built around your own spelling list, classroom theme, or birthday message instead of a random one you found online? This free Word Search Maker lets you type in any words you like, from vocabulary lists to names to holiday themes, and instantly builds a custom puzzle around them, complete with a word list and an optional answer key.
Just paste or type your words, pick a grid size, and choose which directions words can run. The tool arranges everything for you, fills the empty spaces with random letters, and gives you a printable page ready for the classroom, a party activity, or a quiet rainy-day project. No design skills or software needed, it all happens right in your browser.
How It Works
- Type a puzzle title and enter your words, one per line, in the Words box.
- Choose a grid size from Auto-fit or fixed sizes ranging from 10×10 up to 25×25.
- Select whether letters appear in UPPERCASE or lowercase.
- Pick which directions words are allowed to run: horizontal, vertical, diagonal, and backwards.
- Click Generate Puzzle to build the grid, or click Shuffle to get a new layout with the same words.
- Toggle Show answer key if you want a solution overlay, then click Print / PDF and choose Save as PDF to download.
Features
- Build puzzles from any custom word list you type in, not just pre-made themes
- Grid sizes from 10×10 to 25×25, plus an Auto-fit option that sizes the grid to your words
- Choice of uppercase or lowercase letters in the finished puzzle
- Control over word directions, including horizontal, vertical, diagonal, and backwards placement
- One-click Shuffle button to instantly regenerate a new layout with the same word list
- Optional color-coded answer key overlay and a Print / PDF button for instant printing or download
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Word Search Maker free to use?
Yes, it is completely free with no account or payment needed. You can generate and print as many word search puzzles as you like.
Do I need to sign up or download software?
No. The tool runs entirely in your web browser, so there is nothing to install and no account to create before you start building puzzles.
Can I print the puzzle or save it as a PDF?
Yes. Click the Print / PDF button and use your browser’s print dialog to print directly on paper, or choose Save as PDF to download a digital copy.
Can I use my own custom word list?
Yes, that is the whole point of this tool. Type or paste any words you want, one per line, whether it is a spelling list, names, or a themed vocabulary set.
Can I get an answer key for the puzzle?
Yes. Turn on the Show answer key toggle and a color-coded overlay highlighting each hidden word will appear, ready to print as your solution sheet.
Is this suitable for kids and classrooms, and does it work on mobile?
Yes. You control the grid size and directions, so you can make simple horizontal-only puzzles for younger kids or trickier diagonal and backwards versions for older students. It works in any modern browser on desktop, tablet, or phone.