An image forming apparatus allows a print unit to print a sheet on which a user handwrites, and combines a handwritten image included in an image obtained by reading out a handwritten sheet with a background image, and prints the combined image. Further, a decor to determine decoration contents for the handwriting image and a painting pattern of a decorated area can be designated by the user, and the handwriting image is decorated according to the determined decoration contents and the painting pattern. Further, the decoration contents are determined according to the designated painting pattern as well as the designated decor. That is, the decor that the user desires may be adjusted to be suitable for the designated painting pattern and the decoration contents may be determined.