Your First QR Code
From blank page to downloadable code takes about two minutes. Doing it right (correct type, scannable design, tested before printing) takes maybe ten, and this walkthrough covers all of it. By far the most common is a URL QR code: paste any web link, get a scannable image back. We'll use that as the running example.
Step 1: Choose Your QR Code Type
Common QR Code Types
- URL: Link to any website
- vCard: Share contact information
- WiFi: Share network credentials
- Email: Pre-compose an email
- SMS: Pre-compose a text message
- Phone: Initiate a phone call
- Location: Share a map location
- Event: Add a calendar event
- Social Media: Link to profiles
Choosing the Right Type
Consider:
- What action do you want users to take?
- What device will they be using?
- Is the content static or dynamic?
Step 2: Enter Your Content
For URL QR Codes
- Copy your full URL (including https://)
- Paste into the QR code generator
- Verify the link is correct
For vCard QR Codes
Enter:
- Full name
- Job title
- Company
- Phone number(s)
- Email address
- Website
- Address
For WiFi QR Codes
Enter:
- Network name (SSID)
- Password
- Encryption type (WPA/WPA2)
- Hidden network (yes/no)
Step 3: Customize Your Design
Color Selection
- Choose a foreground color (the dots)
- Choose a background color
- Ensure sufficient contrast
Shape Options
- Square modules (default)
- Rounded squares
- Circles
- Custom shapes
Add Your Logo
- Upload a high-resolution image
- Position in the center
- Adjust size (keep under 30%)
- Test scannability
Add a Frame
- Select a frame style
- Add call-to-action text
- Choose frame color
- Adjust positioning
Step 4: Configure Settings
Error Correction Level
There is nothing to set here: every code built on this site uses H, the highest of the four the format defines, which is the level a centred logo needs. The four exist because the choice matters on other tools, and it is worth knowing what they cost:
- L (7%): Smallest QR code, no customization
- M (15%): Light customization
- Q (25%): Moderate customization
- H (30%): Heavy customization, add logos
Size Settings
- Consider where the QR code will be used
- Minimum 2x2 cm for print
- 240x240 pixels for digital
Step 5: Preview and Test
Before Downloading
- Preview the final design
- Test scan with your phone
- Test on multiple devices if possible
- Check the destination link
Testing Tips
- Use your phone's camera
- Try in different lighting
- Test at various distances
- Verify the correct page loads
Step 6: Download Your QR Code
File Format Options
- PNG: Best for digital use, smaller file size
- SVG: Best for print, scalable without quality loss
- PDF: Good for print materials
- EPS: Professional print format
Resolution Recommendations
- Web: 300x300 pixels minimum
- Print: 300 DPI minimum
- Large format: SVG or high-resolution PNG
Step 7: Deploy Your QR Code
Digital Placement
- Websites and landing pages
- Email signatures
- Social media posts
- Digital presentations
Print Placement
- Business cards
- Flyers and brochures
- Product packaging
- Posters and banners
- Receipts
Best Practices
- Ensure adequate lighting
- Avoid curved surfaces
- Include clear instructions
- Leave quiet zone intact
Troubleshooting Common Issues
QR Code Won't Scan
- Check contrast levels
- Increase size
- Reduce logo size
- Check for damage or distortion
Wrong Destination
- Verify the URL
- Check for typos
- Test the short URL if used
Code Too Complex
- Shorten the URL
- Use a URL shortener
- Reduce data amount
Next Steps
Once your first code is out in the world:
- Track its performance
- Iterate on design
- Try different QR code types
- Explore advanced features
The one rule that survives every use case: scan the printed version yourself before anyone else does. A code that worked on screen and fails on paper is the most common support question we get, and it's almost always size or contrast.