QR codes have become an essential tool for quickly sharing information with just a scan. Whether it’s for business cards, flyers, menus, or any other purpose, printing a QR code correctly is crucial to ensure it works as intended.
Before diving into the printing process, it’s essential to understand why proper formatting matters.
A poorly printed QR code can become unreadable, rendering it useless for customers or users. Factors like the size, contrast, and material of the printed QR code affect its ability to scan correctly.
How to Print a QR Code on Paper
You can create a printable QR code easily using Pageloot’s QR code generator tool. With the free QR code generator, you can create printable QR codes for business cards, posters, flyers, or any other marketing material you need.
Here’s how to ensure your code prints correctly:
Step 1: Download the QR code in a high-resolution format like PNG or SVG to preserve its clarity.
Step 2: Open your preferred design software or word processor to insert the QR code into your document or design.
Step 3: Place the QR code in a visible area on your document, and ensure that there’s enough white space around the code. This space is called the quiet zone, and it helps scanners accurately read the code.
Step 4: Use a high-quality printer to print the QR code, ensuring that the ink and colors are clear and not smudged.
Choosing the Right Paper
When it comes to printing QR codes, the type of material you choose can impact its scannability. Here are some options to consider:
Normal Paper
If you’re placing your QR code on a menu, business card, or flyer – Place it into the design and print it together with the QR code.
Sticker Paper
Stickers give you the freedom to place your QR codes anywhere on an existing product or desgin.
Label Paper
This type of paper is designed specifically for label printers. Label paper is thinner and great for placing on products.
Thicker Paper
When printing QR codes on business cards, use a thicker paper than menus and flyers.
| QR Code Use Case | Recommended Paper Thickness | Paper Type |
| Magazines | 80-100 gsm | Glossy or Semi-gloss Paper |
| Product Packaging Labels | 80-120 gsm | Adhesive Label Paper |
| Stickers | 100-150 gsm | Vinyl Sticker Paper |
| Flyers and Brochures | 150-200 gsm | Glossy or Matte Paper |
| Posters | 170-200 gsm | Satin or Glossy Paper |
| Event Passes | 200-250 gsm | Sturdy Cardstock |
| Menus | 200-250 gsm | Laminated Cardstock |
| Notebook Covers | 200-250 gsm | Coated Cardstock |
| QR Code Tags (e.g., luggage) | 250-300 gsm | Water-resistant Cardstock |
| Business Cards | 300-350 gsm | Thick Cardstock |
Best Printers for QR Codes
The quality of your QR code printing largely depends on the type of printer and paper used. For best results:
Laser & Ink Printers
This is usually the best way to go. Use a laser or ink printer for sharp, high-contrast QR codes, which ensures easy scanning.
Thermal Printers
Perfect for printing labels and QR code tags used mainly for receipts – both in inventory or retail.
The Correct QR Code Size for Print
For detailed sizing recommendations, be sure to check out our QR code size guide, where we break down everything you need to know about the right sizes for every situation.
When printing QR codes, size matters. To make sure your code scans perfectly every time, follow these size guidelines:
Small Size
A QR code on a business card should be no smaller than 1.5 x 1.5 cm (0.6 x 0.6 in) for clear scanning.
Standard Size
For most printed materials like flyers and posters, a QR code of at least 2 x 2 cm (0.8 x 0.8 in) is recommended.
Large Size
If you’re printing a QR code on large banners or signage, you’ll need a proportionately larger code to ensure that it scans from a distance.
QR Code Printing Tips
- Minimum QR Code Size: Ensure your printed QR code is at least 2 x 2 cm to guarantee scannability, especially if it contains a lot of information.
- Adjust Printer Settings: Use a high-resolution setting when printing QR codes to ensure all details are captured.
- Choose the Right Paper: Use high-quality QR code printer paper that ensures crisp lines and high contrast.
- Testing Before Printing: Always test your QR code with a smartphone before proceeding with a large print run. This helps avoid issues like a QR code not printing properly.
Make sure your QR code is saved in 300 DPI or higher to avoid any pixelation, ensuring it remains scannable. For more details on resolution and scanning distance, refer to the QR Code Size Guide.
QR Code Printing Problems
Even when following the steps above, you may still run into some issues while printing QR codes. Here are some of the most common problems and how to solve them:
QR Code Not Printing Clearly
If your QR code looks pixelated or blurry, it could be because it’s been saved in a low-resolution format. Always download your code in PNG or SVG for high-quality prints.
QR Code Too Small
If your printed code is too small to scan, increase the size to at least 2 cm x 2 cm. Always test it with your smartphone to make sure it works before mass printing.
Poor Contrast
For the best results, your QR code should be printed in dark colors (preferably black) on a light background (white works best). Avoid printing your QR code on a colored or patterned background.
Where to Use Printable QR Codes
Printable QR codes can be used across various mediums, including:
Flyers and Posters
Perfect for advertising events or promotions where people can scan on the go.
Menus and Brochures
Ideal for restaurants or businesses that want to provide digital access to their full range of services.
Business Cards
QR codes make it easy to share your contact information without needing to exchange physical details.
Product Packaging
Great for adding additional product information, user manuals, or promotional content directly on your packaging.
| Printable QR Code | Benefit |
| Flyers and Posters | Quickly advertise events or promotions where people can scan on the go. |
| Menus and Brochures | Provide easy access to digital menus or services, perfect for restaurants. |
| Business Cards | Share contact details easily and reduce the need for physical business cards. |
| Product Packaging | Offer product details, user manuals, or promotional content via QR codes. |
| Event Tickets | Simplify ticket scanning and check-ins with QR codes printed on tickets. |
| Retail Receipts | Link customers to digital receipts or promotional offers for repeat purchases. |
| Event Invitations | Allow attendees to RSVP or view event details with a quick scan. |
| Exhibits or Museum Displays | Provide additional content or audio guides for visitors using QR codes. |
| Books, Certificates or Diplomas | Offer verification links or additional details for certifications or awards. |
| Storefront Windows | Attract customers with a scannable QR code for promotions or store details. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, QR codes can be printed on almost any surface, including paper, plastic, and even fabric. The key is ensuring the code is high-quality and that there’s enough contrast between the code and the background.
For most printed materials, it’s recommended to print a QR code no smaller than 2 x 2 cm (0.79 x 0.79 inches). For business cards, a size of 1.5 x 1.5 cm (0.59 x 0.59 inches) is the minimum size.
To print a QR code clearly, make sure it’s saved in a high-resolution format (300 DPI), and ensure your printer settings match the quality required.
If a QR code is blurry, it may not scan properly. This often happens if the image is low resolution. To avoid this, ensure your QR code is at least 300 DPI when printed, and always test it after printing to make sure it’s readable.
If you need to print multiple QR codes, you can generate them in bulk using a QR code generator that supports batch processing. Save them in a high-resolution format and then print them all together on your chosen material.
The smallest recommended size for a printed QR code is around 1.5 x 1.5 cm (0.59 x 0.59 inches). Anything smaller may not scan properly, especially if the QR code contains a lot of information. Be sure to test your QR code to ensure it works at the size you plan to print.
Yes, QR codes can be printed on paper for a variety of uses, including flyers, brochures, posters, and business cards. As long as the code is clear and printed in the correct size and resolution, it will work effectively.
