Printing Best Practices

July 2026

A QR Code is only useful if people can scan it quickly and reliably. Following a few simple guidelines before printing can significantly improve the user experience and help avoid costly reprints.

Sqanna allows you to download QR Codes as PNG or SVG.

PNG is suitable for:

• Websites
• Emails
• Social media
• Presentations
• Small office printing

SVG is recommended for:

• Professional printing
• Product packaging
• Business cards
• Posters
• Banners
• Signage

SVG is a vector format, meaning it can be resized without losing quality.

Every QR Code requires an empty margin around it, known as the quiet zone.

Do not place text, logos, borders or graphics too close to the QR Code.

Without sufficient spacing, some scanners may struggle to detect the code correctly.

Very small QR Codes can become difficult to scan.

As a general recommendation:

If you're unsure, choose a slightly larger size.

QR Codes work best when there is strong contrast between the foreground and background.

Recommended:

• Black on white
• Dark blue on white
• Dark green on white

Avoid:

• Low contrast colours
• Transparent backgrounds
• Busy backgrounds
• Metallic finishes that create reflections

Always scan your QR Code using multiple devices before sending large print runs to production.

Ideally test with:

• iPhone
• Android
• Different lighting conditions
• Different camera apps

Testing beforehand can prevent expensive mistakes.

Outdoor QR Codes experience sunlight, dirt, scratches and moisture.

For outdoor installations consider:

• Weather-resistant materials
• UV-resistant inks
• Larger QR Codes
• Matte finishes to reduce glare

• Use SVG for professional printing.
• Leave sufficient white space around the QR Code.
• Test before printing hundreds of copies.
• Print slightly larger than you think you need.
• Avoid placing QR Codes on curved surfaces whenever possible.