QR codes have undergone several transformations since their inception to meet the needs of the masses and brands.
The era of black and white QR codes is over. QR codes today are versatile, can be designed in different ways without losing their scannability and still look attractive. QR codes are one of the most important ways to effectively integrate mobile marketing with existing media and marketing channels to reach meaningful consumer segments.
Reading: How to create a qr code with logo
You can now create branded and designer QR codes that fit your brand.
Almost half of all smartphone users in this era are young (between 25 and 35 ), which strongly suggests that marketing campaigns use technological statistics to reach the right audience.
Table of contents
- 8 design tips to customize a QR code
- Steps to create a custom QR code
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- Places to use custom QR codes
- How do I create my own personal QR code?
- What are the benefits of custom QR codes?
- FAQs
What is a custom QR code?
A custom QR code is a unique appearance of a QR code. With customization options like different colors, patterns, and backgrounds, or adding a logo and CTA frame, one can design a unique QR code that represents the brand.
Custom QR codes help improve brand recall, Attract interest and add value to any marketing campaign. Marketers and advertisers around the world are now incorporating custom QR codes or “designer codes” into their campaigns, proving that this new trend is here to stay; redesign the appearance of QR codes as a whole. A custom QR code will attract more scans than a simple black and white QR code.
What is a branded QR code?
A branded QR code is a custom QR code that has been personalized to align with a brand or brand guidelines person, either through the use of colors or shapes, font or logo, or a combination of all of these factors. Aesthetics aside, branded QR codes can also have a custom domain instead of a generic one to further encourage trust from their customers.
How to create your own QR code: Create personalized QR codes
QR code design involves experimenting with data patterns, eyes and shapes of the QR code, varying colors to match your brand to customize, and adding a branded logo and call-to-action on the QR code.
Here are some tips for designing a creative QR code campaign –
How to design a QR code: 8 QR code customization tips
Here are 8 QR code design tips for QR code customization –
- Play with the color palette
- Add a logo
- Pay attention to the size of the QR code
- Change the eyes
- Pay attention to the quiet zone
- Add a CTA frame around the QR Add code
- Customize the background of the QR code
- Make it distinctive
#1. Color Palette
Black and white QR codes are not only outdated, they usually don’t accurately reflect the purpose of the QR code. QR code coloring is ideal for creating the best QR code designs that can catch a user’s attention. Of course, this does not mean that the QR codes can look appealing with any color combination. Before choosing colors for creative QR codes, there are a few protocols to follow –
1. Color Theme
When choosing the color theme for the QR code, be sure to include the color of the brand so users can identify it. Use a 40% contrast between the background and foreground colors to make the QR code stand out.
2. Color scheme – How to make my own QR code scannable
Don’t use too many colors with different color schemes as this may make the QR code unscannable. Assess the code’s scannability and appropriately integrate the colors into the QR code by testing the QR code.
3. Gradient
There are several gradient websites like uiGradients and ColorZilla to help you decide on colors that go well together.
#2. Logo
Always use a high-resolution logo in the code that differentiates it from other brands and engages the audience. Use the correct image quality for the logo or background and make sure the logo is placed in the center of the code to preserve scannability.
It’s best to upload a square logo to avoid compromising on design. The size of the logo can be increased or decreased using a slider in the custom QR code generator dashboard.
#3. QR code size
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Be sure to make your QR code consistent with your marketing campaign, but remember that even the best QR code design may not work well without the right size.The minimum size of a custom QR code must be at least 2cm x 2cm to scan properly The size of the QR code must match the placement of the QR code on the campaign A QR code on a poster must be more descriptive than the of a QR code on a brochure. Proportion is key here.
#4. Modify the eye
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The “eyes” of the QR code Codes can also be customized to match the overall look of the C odes to keep it consistent.The color of the eyes can also be changed, but change the color accordingly j. Place the eyes in a square frame for better legibility.
Make sure the eyes of the QR code are not covered. Always make sure to embed code-related designs in the middle so they don’t wrap around the code and thus can’t scan it.
#5. Quiet Zone
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A quiet zone is essentially space around the corners of the QR code. A properly spaced QR code can help scanners differentiate between their surroundings and the code. The code becomes unreadable when the distance between the quiet zone and the module is overcompensated. The minimum criterion for the quiet zone is that it is at least four times as wide as the modules of the QR code. Don’t overfill the quiet zone by entering a lot of data into the code, thus reducing the size of the pixels.
Use dynamic QR codes
The best way to avoid overfilling your QR code is to use a dynamic QR code. Because a dynamic QR code uses a placeholder URL, you can have as much information as you want without it looking busy.
#6. Add a CTA with a frame around the QR code
Adding frames that complement the QR code can change its visual appearance amplify many times over. A frame not only gives the QR code consistency, but also gives it a distinctive look. Although call-to-action messages can be placed in the middle of the code, placing them on the frame with colored borders can help to get more scans.
Related: Create compelling frame CTAs for your QR codes with text below
#7. Customize QR code background
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The background of the QR code can be changed to let users know what the QR code represents. The background can be either an image or just a simple color. Make sure the background matches the color of the QR code. Most scanners cannot scan an inverted code. It’s best to keep the color scheme of the QR code and background in contrast to each other, rather than blending them with similar color palettes, which makes the QR code unscannable.
#8. How do you make your QR code stand out? Make it Distinctive
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QR codes contain a wealth of high-quality information about the campaign or brand, so it only makes sense to level the QR code up for easy scanability place . As mentioned before, consider the size of the campaign and then design the QR code accordingly. We recommend simply scanning the QR code and not hiding it in a corner. Make sure the QR code stands out so that it’s not only easy to recognize, but also easy to scan.
See also: How to Create an Incredible Recruitment Website?
Best QR code scanner apps to test your custom QR codes
QR code design best practices: How to create a custom QR code
If you want to create your own custom QR code, hold on tight and follow this simple guide to create a QR code that suits your taste in no time.
Here is a quick guide to create a custom QR code –
- Choose an online QR code generator
- Choose the QR code type
- Enter the data
- Customize the QR code by changing its eyes, template, color gradient and adding a logo
- Generate and test the QR code
- Download the QR code
1. Choose a Robust QR Code Generator
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There are several QR code generators on the market, but the Choosing the right QR code generator is A robust QR code generator creates a QR code that does not expire, results in a 404 error page, and is able to track and parse the designed QR code. The QR code generator must also provide options to customize the QR code accordingly.
2. Enter the data based on the type of QR code you want to create
Decide what type of QR code you want to develop and its purpose. There are different types of QR codes – website URLs, vCards, emails, SMS etc. p>
For example, if you want to create a website that lands pa ge, type e Enter the website URL in the field provided. This website URL will be embedded in the QR code and upon scanning, the user will be taken to the campaign landing page. If you want to create a vCard with a QR code, fill in the details on the QR code generator page with the correct information. You can also create a QR code for a PDF by uploading your PDF file to the QR code platform.
3. Select QR code type
There are two types of QR codes available – static and dynamic. Although a static QR code can be customized, we recommend choosing a good dynamic QR code generator to create dynamic QR codes because static codes, once created, cannot be modified. They are permanent, while dynamic QR codes, also known as mutable QR codes, are not. If your campaign’s agenda is single use, then proceed with static QR codes.
But if you want to create a QR code that needs to be re-edited to analyze audience trends, update Periodically review the campaign details, and then select a dynamic QR code. Wondering how much these codes cost? Check out our dynamic QR code pricing (starting at $5 per month).
4. Customize QR Code
Customization is the best part of creating a QR code. A campaign fits its brand best when its logo is added to the QR code. Adding a logo to the QR code will make the brand name look unique. Change the QR code color that correlates with your brand logo, but be careful not to overload the code by choosing a color that doesn’t make your logo shine. Choose a color that clearly contrasts the foreground and background of the QR code.
Add an image to the QR code
If you want to connect the QR code to print media, add an image in the background instead of the logo to show the campaign agenda to blur . Do not merge logo and background as the QR code will end up looking crowded thus defeating the entire purpose of the created code.
Add CTA
As mentioned earlier, the eyes of a QR code can also be redesigned based on the overall design of the QR code. Adding a call-to-action with phrases like “Scan Me” or “Scan to Avail an Offer” triggers slightly higher scan rates than a plain QR code with no CTA. Adding a template to the QR code to include CTAs makes the QR code more attractive.
Change the shape of the QR code
If a square QR code doesn’t fit within your brand’s design guidelines, you can change it to a circular QR code instead. Maintain your brand’s design aesthetic and capture the attention of your audience with custom QR code shapes for your campaigns.
5. Create and Download QR Code
Click on Generate and download the generated QR code. A QR code can be downloaded in different formats – JPEG, SVG, EPS, PNG, PDF or just as a plain file.
Once the QR code is generated, test it to make sure it’s scannable, not spammy, and “readable”. Test the final QR code with different scanning apps to make sure it’s readable.
An aesthetically pleasing QR code captivates audiences for better CTRs and leads to maximum scans.
The Ultimate Guide to Printing QR Codes
6. Test the QR code
An essential part of creating a custom QR code is testing. Test the final designed QR code with different devices – iOS, Android and Windows.Sometimes , the generated QR code may not scan properly, or the landing page may either become corrupted or bounce, or the information entered in the code may not be correct, so it makes sense to search the QR code for its Test creation to fill a gap
A custom QR code will only retain its readability if 30% of the code is edited, and nothing more, the ability to scanning the QR code is lost.
Use cases of custom QR codes: where can you use them?
A custom QR code can be used anywhere and everywhere.Some of use cases are –
1. Billboards and Banners
Billboard marketing campaigns are often described as the most appealing form of marketing as they attract viewers easily. Embedding creative QR codes on billboards large enough to scan is self-explanatory. The QR code, when scanned, can reveal information about the type of campaign used, e.g. B. guide the user to the store, inform users about new products, offers and discounts; the list is endless. Make sure the QR code campaign is not placed on freeways, subways, or in areas where traffic is not stagnant.
Calvin Klein embedded QR codes on select billboards in New York and Los Angeles as part of their 2010 ad campaign promoting the the brand’s newest skinny was advertised as jeans. The QR code was strategically placed at street level for users to scan and upon scanning, the code directed users to an exclusive CK Jeans video that could be shared with friends on social media.
You can be one step ahead and design your billboards with next-level vectors to ensure they stand out at all times. Make sure you use good vector graphics software for this.
2. QR Codes in Restaurants
A QR code menu can be used in restaurants to securely access the menu online without coming into contact with the staff. Not only that, QR codes in restaurants can also be used for multiple purposes – for reviews and ratings, following social media, accessing food gallery, events, discounts and offers to improve business and so on.
Integrating a QR code in a restaurant can not only improve the overall dining experience for customers, but also help businesses grow and ultimately increase the rate of returning customers.
The QR code must be placed on a menu in such a way that there is no chance of it being missed by customers. The size of the QR code on menus cannot be as big as on billboards. They need to be slightly smaller and proportional to the size of the menu to keep it scannable. Make sure to include either an image, logo or CTA to ensure the scan count is high.
3. Brochure
Brochures are a print media direct marketing tool for brands that reveals details about the store and what it offers. QR codes on brochures are the ideal way to transfer digital content to print media and reach customers.
Brochures are ideally more informative and contain page(s) with detailed information. Brochures are commonly used for events, company branding, sales, advertising and mailings. Decide the type of QR code based on the information the code contains, and then customize the QR code accordingly. A brochure QR code should be at least 2cm x 2cm for easy scanning. To keep the code readable, do not place the QR code on the edges.
Read how to integrate colorful QR codes in brochures
4. vCards
vCards or digital business cards contain contact information such as name, address, email address, URLs or other information relevant to the company. Inserting QR codes on vCards is the easiest way to direct the user to reveal more about the companies/brands. QR codes on vCards cannot be huge. You need to reveal important details about businesses with just a single tap.
Learn how to create a digital business card so you can share your contact information instantly.
5. Social Media
According to Statista, about 90% of US companies use it Using social media for marketing purposes. It only implies that social media is a powerful marketing tool for all marketing campaigns. Regardless of the size of the company or brand, social media advertising has proven to be the most successful way of marketing.
See also: How to Create a Chat Room Website in 2023
Create your own QR Codes and place them on your campaign material to redirect users to your social media sites like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube when scanning.Let your creativity run free and make it like this appealing as possible. Social Media QR Codes can not only be tracked, but also edited as often as required, depending on the campaign requirements.
6. Maps
Location-based QR codes are ano Another way to simplify the process of finding directions to a specific business or event, highlighting a tourist attraction, directing the user to the point of interest redirect or create landmarks. A location-based QR code can be easily created by entering the coordinates of the location on the map and using the same link to generate a QR code that, when scanned, will take the user to said location.
A location-based QR code can be placed anywhere – brochures, text, social media pages, billboards, flyers, receipts and so on. Make sure the QR code includes “Maps” as a logo so users know it’s actually a location-based QR code.
Ready to create your first location-based QR code?
A QR code can be customized to fit any purpose and space, depending on the needs of a particular campaign. Brands like Adidas, Puma, Macy’s and other big brand names have joined the chariot of customizing their QR codes for marketing campaigns to see a steep increase in sales and user engagement. Bespoke branding QR codes set them apart from other businesses as their ads are easily recognizable. Not only that, but it also helps brands reduce costs from repeated marketing appearances and increase productivity. QR codes can be easily scanned with smartphones, which makes them all the more desirable as a marketing tool.
How do I create a personal QR code?
Personal QR Codes contain information about yourself that comes in handy when you meet potential employers, Connect business partners and entrepreneurs.
It could link to a vCard, your resume, or your website, making it easier for potential customers to access your information and learn more about you.
Furthermore, the right QR code design, complete with your brand logo and actionable border text, can help entice those customers to scan the QR code and lead to fruitful interactions.
How to create and design a personal QR code –
- Go to an online QR code generator.
- Choose Depending on the type, click a QR code on the information you want to share.
- Customize your QR code – choose the color, background, eye shape and frame, add a logo and add a suitable border text.
- Test your QR code to make sure it’s scannable.
- Download it in one of these five formats – PNG, JPG, PDF, SVG or EPS.
You can also check our QR code price list.
What are the advantages of QR code design?
1. Brand Recognition
Brand recognition is essentially when a person can clearly recognize a brand name in relation to their product and brand in general, even from a distance.
Custom QR codes with logos and appropriate color palettes can help customers easily and efficiently recognize any brand. Synchronizing colors and branding logos improves brand awareness by up to 80% and shows the importance of ensuring all elements of your design fit your brand.
2. Omnichannel Analysis
When a brand uses its unique QR code on different platforms, from social media to offline marketing materials, it becomes easy for the brand to track the same QR code on all platforms, to analyze and use.
3. Saves advertising costs
Custom QR codes help a brand save on advertising costs. Traditional marketing methods are exorbitantly expensive to design and print, and the same material cannot be used on another platform, which means additional costs.
QR codes can help save a lot of money as they are easy to create, versatile and can be embedded almost anywhere on any platform for the same price.
4. Track data in real-time
Custom QR codes allow you to track QR code campaign data to track real-time results.With dynamic QR codes, the marketing campaign can be fine-tuned instantly to deliver a better performing marketing campaign.
Use split A/B testing for custom and non-custom QR codes for marketing campaigns to monitor which campaign is performing best and use the best performing QR code for the campaign.
With custom dynamic QR codes, a marketing campaign can be tracked, analyzed and monitored based on the last scan, the time of the scan, the location, the device used and even the operating system used.
5. QR Codes For Life
A static QR code generated by an online QR code generator like Beaconstac is valid forever as long as the URL associated with the QR code is not broken is.
However, once created, the QR code cannot be edited for other purposes.
For dynamic QR codes, the QR code works as long as the plan is active. If deactivated, the QR code will not work. As long as the subscription is active, the campaign can be tracked, monitored and used for whatever you want.
Here are some cool QR code designs to try
Frequently Asked Questions
1 . How can I create a custom QR code?
To create a custom QR code:
- Choose a free online QR code generator
- Choose a QR code type and fill in the details
- Customize the QR code by adding a logo, changing color patterns and even a CTA
- Generate and test the QR code
- Download the QR code
2. How do I convert an image into a QR code?
To convert an image into a QR code –
- Choose an online QR code generator
- Select an image QR code on the dashboard
- Upload an image from your gallery
- Customize the QR code by typing add a logo, change color swatches, and even generate and test a CTA
- QR code
- Download QR code
3. How do I create a custom QR code with a logo?
To create a custom QR code with a logo –
- Choose an online QR code Generator
- Choose a QR code type and fill in the details
- Customize the QR code by adding a logo
- Generate and test QR code
- Download QR code
4. Can I create my own QR code?
Yes, you can.
To create your own QR code –
- Choose a free online QR code generator
- Choose a QR code -Type and fill in the details
- Customize the QR code design by adding a logo, changing color pattern, background and even eyes
- Generate and test the QR Code
- Download the QR Code
5. Can I create my own QR code for free?
Yes. Follow these simple steps to create your own QR code for free.
- Choose a free online QR code generator
- Choose a static QR code Code type and fill in the details
- Customize the QR code by adding a logo, changing color pattern, background and even eyes
- Generate and test the QR code
- Download QR code
6. Can a QR code be any shape?
A QR code can be any shape, but make sure the eyes are not misaligned, otherwise the QR code will be considered unscannable. Keep in mind that extreme deviation from the shape of a QR code will render it unrecognizable and unscannable for QR code scanners.
7. Do QR codes expire?
A static QR code does not expire as long as the URL associated with the static QR code is still working. Otherwise, the QR code will not work, which means it will not redirect the user to a working website.
A dynamic QR code works as long as the subscription is active. After deactivation, the QR code will no longer work.
8. Can I create a QR code in a circle?
Yes, you can create a QR code in the usual way and create it in a circle using the templates available on the QR code platform. Essentially, the square QR code has some extra design bits all around to make it a circular QR code.
9. Can a QR code be any color?
Absolutely. You can customize your QR code color scheme to match your brand, grab your audience’s attention and improve brand recall. Colorful QR codes help achieve higher scan rates and improve customer loyalty.
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