How to make a QR code for print

1. Generate, then download vector

Build the code as usual, then download SVG (or PDF). Print is where vector beats raster decisively: the file rasterises at the press's own resolution with sharp module edges at any size. If your workflow genuinely requires a bitmap, generate a PNG at 300 DPI at the final printed size (pixels = cm × 300 ÷ 2.54), and never resize it afterwards.

2. Size it from the scanning distance

The 10:1 rule: printed width ≥ scanning distance ÷ 10.

Piece	Typical distance	Minimum code width
Business card	15–20 cm	1.6–2 cm
Flyer, menu	30–40 cm	3–4 cm
Poster	1–2 m	10–20 cm
Shop window	2–3 m	20–30 cm

Never go below 2 × 2 cm even at reading distance, and remember denser payloads need more size, the size calculator folds payload length, distance and medium into one number.

3. Protect the quiet zone and the trim

Keep the quiet zone of at least 4 modules clear on every side, and keep the code well inside the safe area, codes placed near the edge get clipped when the guillotine drifts. Details in bleed, trim and safe area. If a designer crops the downloaded file tight to the modules "to save space", the code will fail; the margin is functional.

4. Get the colour right for a press

• Dark modules on a light background, ≥ 40% luminance difference, the colour rules apply double in print because paper, ink and lighting all eat margin.
• For offset/CMYK work, specify the modules as 100% K (single-plate black), not a four-colour rich black. A code built from four plates shows registration fringing at module edges. More in QR codes in CMYK print.
• Brand colours often shift when converted to CMYK, if the code must be branded, proof the converted colour, not the screen swatch.

5. Proof at final size, on the final stock

Print one copy at 100% scale on the actual paper, then:

1. Scan it with at least two phones, from the intended distance.
2. Scan it again in dim light and at a slight angle.
3. Run a photo of the proof through the validator to confirm it decodes and to see the measured contrast.

A code that scans on screen but fails in print almost always went wrong at one of the steps above: resized raster, cropped quiet zone, or colour converted badly. The full pre-press routine, including glossy stock and lamination checks, is the print checklist.

Gotchas

• "Fit to page" in print dialogs rescales your carefully sized code. Print at 100%.
• Error correction for handled print: use Q for anything touched, folded or outdoors; M is fine for clean indoor pieces.
• Home printers on draft mode spray grey, not black, contrast drops below the threshold. Use normal or best quality for proofs you intend to trust.
• Many identical labels? The sticker sheet tool lays one code out on Avery stock or an A4 grid as a ready-to-print PDF.

Generate a print-ready code and download SVG: make a QR code for print.

FAQ

What format should a QR code be for printing?

SVG or PDF, vector formats rasterise sharply at any size on any press. If you must use a bitmap, export PNG at 300 DPI at the exact final size and never rescale it.

How big should a printed QR code be?

At least one tenth of the scanning distance, and never below 2 × 2 cm. A menu read from 35 cm needs 3.5 cm; a poster read from 2 m needs 20 cm.

Should a printed QR code be pure black?

In CMYK work, yes, 100% K on a single plate. Rich black built from four inks shows registration fringing at module edges. On white stock, plain black gives maximum contrast.

How do I test a QR code before a print run?

Print one proof at final size on the final stock, scan it from the real distance with more than one phone, and run a photo of it through a decode validator. Only then approve the run.