# How to make a QR code for print

> Download SVG, or a PNG at 300 DPI at the final printed size. Size the code at one tenth of the scanning distance and never below 2 × 2 cm. Keep a quiet zone of 4 modules, print dark modules in 100% K, and scan a printed proof at real size before the run.

Source: https://useqr.app/docs/how-to/how-to-make-a-qr-code-for-print · Last reviewed 2026-08-21 · UseQR is free forever, MIT licensed, no signup.

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## 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](/docs/how-to/how-to-make-a-high-resolution-qr-code) —
`pixels = cm × 300 ÷ 2.54` — and never resize it afterwards.

## 2. Size it from the scanning distance

The [10:1 rule](/docs/print/qr-code-size-for-print): 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](/docs/print/bleed-trim-and-safe-area-for-qr). 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](/docs/design/qr-code-colors-that-scan) 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](/docs/print/qr-code-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](/validate) 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](/docs/print/qr-code-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](/url?data=https://example.com).

## 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.

## Try it

- https://useqr.app/url
- https://useqr.app/validate
- https://useqr.app/sticker-sheet