How to Create a QR Code

To create a QR code for a website, copy the page URL, enter it into a QR code generator, generate the image, and download it. Then scan the downloaded file to confirm it opens the right page. If you want to update the destination later, choose a dynamic code before you print.

The process is straightforward. The expensive mistakes usually happen when the wrong link gets printed, the code is too small, or the page does not work for someone outside your account. Here is how to get those details right.

1. Decide what someone should do after scanning

Start with one clear action. If someone scans a product label for setup instructions, send them to those instructions. If they scan a table card for the menu, open the menu. Making them search your homepage adds work at the exact moment they have shown interest.

• Collect feedback: link directly to the correct review page.
• Share a document: use a stable PDF link that your audience can open.
• Generate an inquiry: link to a mobile-friendly page with the relevant form.
• Share contact details: open a digital business card or encode a contact record.

Write the label at the same time. “View the menu” tells people what they will get. “Scan me” leaves them guessing.

2. Choose static or dynamic

A static QR code keeps the same encoded information. That can be a URL, contact details, or WiFi credentials. A dynamic QR code contains a managed link that sends visitors to a destination you can change in your account.

For printed marketing, we recommend dynamic when the destination may change or you want scan reporting. Static can be enough for fixed information. If you own the URL inside a static code, you may still update the page at that address or configure your own redirect; the encoded URL itself remains fixed.

Our static vs. dynamic QR code comparison explains the tradeoffs in more detail. Decide before ordering your cards, signs, or packaging.

3. Create your QR code in QRCD

• Sign in to your QRCD account and create a dynamic QR code.
• Paste the complete destination URL, including https://.
• Give the code a name you will recognize later, such as “October brochure — booking page.”
• Choose readable colors and add your logo if it fits without making the code difficult to scan.
• Generate the code, scan the preview, and download the high-resolution PNG.

Open the destination in a private browser window as well. A link that works while you are signed in may show everyone else a permission request. This is especially easy to miss with documents and forms.

4. Prepare the image for the way people will use it

Keep the code square. Use a dark pattern on a plain, light background, and avoid stretching a small screenshot into a larger print. Place the exported image in your artwork and leave the surrounding blank margin visible.

DENSO WAVE specifies a quiet zone of four modules on each side of a standard QR code. A module is one of the small squares in the pattern. That margin is part of the layout, so keep text, borders, and other artwork outside it. See DENSO WAVE’s code-area guidance.

For something held in the hand, around 2.5 cm (1 inch) square is a sensible starting layout choice. It is not a universal minimum or a scanning guarantee. A dense code, textured paper, poor lighting, or a longer viewing distance may require more space.

5. Test the printed version, not just the preview

Print one proof at the final size. Test it in the position, lighting, and distance your customers will encounter. A counter sign behind reflective plastic is a different test from an image on your laptop.

• Try both an iPhone and an Android phone where possible.
• Confirm the page opens on mobile data, without your account being signed in.
• Complete the intended action: read the document, use the form, or open the contact page.
• Check that the code still scans after adding a logo or changing the print finish.
• Include a readable web address so people have another way to reach you.

If the code fails, check where the problem starts

What happens	What to check
The camera does not recognize it	Increase the size, improve contrast, restore the blank margin, and try a plain version without a logo.
The phone recognizes it but opens an error	Open the destination URL directly. Check spelling, page availability, and sharing permissions.
The page opens but people cannot finish	Check the mobile layout, form fields, sign-in requirements, and loading time.

Once the code is in use, revisit it when you change the destination and periodically while printed copies remain out there. If you are measuring a campaign, use a separate code for each placement and follow our guide to tracking QR code scans.

Frequently asked questions