Resource

Where to put your QR code

QR codes work almost anywhere — but the right size, contrast, and placement decide whether they actually get scanned. Here's a practical, no-nonsense guide by surface, with the tool to make each one. Free, no signup.

QR codes placed on a flyer, packaging, a storefront window and a t-shirt

6 rules that work on every surface

Mind the size

A common rule: the code should be at least 1/10th of the scanning distance. A code scanned from 3 m needs to be ~30 cm wide.

Keep strong contrast

Dark code on a light background scans best. Avoid low-contrast color pairs and never invert (light code on dark) unless you test it.

Leave the quiet zone

Keep a clear margin (about 4 modules) around the code. Crowding it with text or graphics stops cameras from locking on.

Always test before print

Scan the final proof on both an iPhone and an Android, from the real distance, under real lighting — before you print a batch.

Use the right material

Matte surfaces beat glossy (less glare). On curved or fabric surfaces, place the code on the flattest area and size up.

Add a short prompt

A line like ‘Scan for the menu’ lifts scans noticeably — tell people what they'll get.

Print & paper

Flyers, posters, cards and the materials people hold in their hands.

Flyers

Drive readers from a paper flyer straight to your offer, signup, or booking page.

Min 2.5 cmHigh contrast

Make this code

Posters

Posters are read from a distance, so size the code for the viewing range — bigger is safer.

3–5 cm+Scan-distance × 10 rule

Make this code

Business cards

A vCard code saves your full contact details in one tap — no typing.

~2 cmLeave quiet space

Make this code

Brochures & catalogs

Link extra photos, specs, or a video that won't fit on the page.

2–3 cmPlace near a CTA

Make this code

Invitations

Point guests to an RSVP form, map, or your event page.

~2 cmTest on the final stock

Make this code

Resumes

Link your portfolio or LinkedIn so recruiters go deeper in one scan.

1.5–2 cmKeep it subtle

Make this code

Packaging & products

Boxes, labels, bottles and the things customers unbox.

Product packaging

Link setup videos, manuals, registration, or a reorder page right on the box.

1.5–2 cmTest a printed proof

Make this code

Food & drink labels

Share ingredients, sourcing, recipes, or promotions on the label.

Min 1.5 cmAvoid curved seams

Make this code

Bottles & cans

Curved surfaces are tricky — keep the code on the flattest panel.

2 cm+Flat area only

Make this code

Stickers & labels

Turn any sticker into a scannable link, menu, or review prompt.

Min 2 cmMatte beats glossy

Make this code

Signage & out-of-home

Windows, walls, banners and signs people pass by.

Storefront windows

Let passers-by view your menu, hours, or shop after closing.

5 cm+Mind reflections

Make this code

Banners & posters

Large-format signage needs a large code — scale with viewing distance.

10 cm+Strong contrast

Make this code

Table tents

Restaurant tabletop codes for menus, Wi-Fi, and reviews.

3–4 cmBoth sides

Make this code

Vehicles

Wrap or decal codes that open your site — size for a parked, not moving, scan.

15 cm+For parked viewing

Make this code

Apparel & objects

Wearables, giveaways and everyday items.

Clothing & merch

Printed or embroidered codes on tees, hats, and tote bags.

4 cm+Flat fabric area

Make this code

Badges & lanyards

Event badges that share a profile or check-in link on scan.

~2.5 cmvCard works well

Make this code

Giveaways & gifts

Mugs, pens, and swag that quietly link back to you.

1.5–2 cmFlat surface

Make this code

Digital & screens

Where a code bridges one screen to another device.

Social media posts

A scannable code in a post or story sends people to your link.

Large in-frameHigh contrast

Make this code

Email & newsletters

Let readers jump from desktop email to their phone in one scan.

~150 pxAdd alt text

Make this code

Slides & presentations

Drop a code on a slide so the room can grab your link instantly.

Large on screenHold the slide 10s+

Make this code

Digital signage & TV

On-screen codes for displays and ads — keep them up long enough to scan.

LargeStatic ≥5 seconds

Make this code

Ready to make one?

Pick a tool, design it your way, and download a print-ready PNG or SVG — free, no account, and it never expires.

Browse all QR tools Open the generator