To create a QR code for printing you should choose a QR code that can be highly customized and edited. Flowcode lets you create dynamic QR codes for free, with scan destinations that can be edited anytime — even after you print your code.

When considering postcards, flyers, mailers, menus, business cards etc, it’s best to ensure your Flowcode QR code is big enough to be easily noticed and scanned by someone holding it an arms length away. Following these tips can help ensure the best customer experience and engagement levels with your codes.
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• Minimum size: The smallest viable size for a Flowcode in print is 1-inch by 1-inch from eye to eye.

• The bigger the better: We estimate a 300% increased scan count with a larger size.

• Size by distance: QR codes that are only accessible from a long distance should be enlarged to maintain scannability. For example, if your Flowcode can only be scanned from 10ft away, your code should be at least 1ft large.

• Additional size tips: Read our complete sizing guide here.

• Scale ratio: We recommend that your Flowcodes take up at least 25% of the total print surface area to ensure they are easily visible and provide a seamless scan experience.

• Placement on print collateral: Make the codes an integral part of your content. This validates the importance of the code, and makes the interaction more trustworthy.

• Place at eye level: Think about how your audience will interact with the code, and what will make it easiest for them to scan without needing to zoom in, bend down, or go out of their way to interact with the code.

When printing QR codes, there are three important rules you need to follow. The first is the size of the QR code. It should be at least 2” large to ensure scannability. The second is the surface you’re printing on. Make sure the material you are printing on can withstand outdoor elements, and not rip. The third is the type of QR code. Make sure you use a dynamic QR code like Flowcode, because after you print your codes the scan destination can be edited.

Yes, you can print your QR code with a regular printer. However, you should make sure your QR code is at least 2” large, otherwise it may have issues scanning. 

Before printing, make sure that your Flowcode is scannable by testing with different devices, or at the very least with your own device. We recommend doing another round of scan testing on a sample print to ensure it is successful before printing in larger quantities.

The QR code format for print is flexible, and depends on the format you are printing for. However, Flowcode, the leading QR code provider, recommends:
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• Use 'matte' or 'dull' finish to reduce glare: If the material has a glossy finish, reflections in it can affect the code and make it hard for the device’s camera to read.
• Print material: For flyers and other applications, using heavier paper stock can help ensure that your collateral remains intact and high quality over time.
• RGB vs CMYK: For certain print materials (newspapers, magazines, some mailers) codes needs to be in black and not 4c (four color).
• Most likely you will need the code to be converted to CMYK.
• Small codes: Codes printed in a small area or on a material with ink bleed should be single color black, typically with no logo and dense data points.