How to Make a QR Code for a Link

QR codes are the ultimate multi tool of modern tech. QR codes make sharing website links easy and quick for business, events or personal projects. In this post we’ll show you how to turn a link into a QR code in 3 easy steps. From choosing the right generator to customizing your code you’ll learn everything you need to get access to your online content. Let’s go!

Image from freepik.com

Step 1: Choose Your QR Code Generator

First you need a good QR code generator to make a QR code for a link. There are loads out there, but they’re not all created equal.

• For quick and dirty: Google Chrome in build QR code tool.
• For something polished: ViralQR.com or Canva’s QR tool lets you customize it with flair.

To choose a good QR code generator look for one that offers the essentials like dynamic QR codes (for editable links), customization options (logos, colors), and analytics to track scans. Make sure it offers high resolution downloads and is compatible with your intended use (print or digital) depending on your needs.

And don’t fall for the trap of choosing the most pretty generator. Functionality is key here. The basics will do the job, trust me.

Step 2: Enter Your Web Page Link

Here’s where the magic happens. Take your web page URL—maybe it’s your portfolio, your event landing page or that side hustle e-commerce site you’ve been working on—and enter it into the generator.

Big Tips:

• Got a long, messy URL? Shorten it with something like Bitly first if you are using static QR codes that can’t be edited. Clean URLs = clean QR codes.
• Choose dynamic QR code if you need flexibility and you want to change the destination URL without reprinting the QR code. Dynamic QR codes are better in this case because you can edit the destination URL even after printing and get analytics like scan counts and locations. They are more flexible, better user experience and cost effective for long term use.

Quick story: I once helped a friend create a QR code for a recruitment drive. We linked it to a Google Form, but what did we do? We didn’t test it. People were scanning the code and getting sent to some random 404 page. Always, always test the link first.

Step 3: Customize the Design

This is the fun bit. Most generators let you customize the look of your QR code—add your logo, change colors, maybe even round the edges.

Big Tips:

• Just keep it readable. High contrast between the code and background is key. A high contrast QR code means the code’s design has clear, sharp differences between the dark modules (usually black) and the light background (usually white). This contrast ensures the scanner can read and decode the QR code without errors. Don’t use light colors for the code or dark backgrounds as poor contrast makes it harder for devices to scan.
• Don’t go crazy. A black and white QR code often works better than one with all the colors of the rainbow.

Oh and remember: sometimes less is more. I’ve seen QR codes so over designed you couldn’t tell they were QR codes. Not the vibe.

Step 4: Download and Test

Now download your code. Get the highest resolution possible—especially if it’s going on a poster or business card.

Big Tips:

• Test it. Like, test it everywhere. Your phone, your coworker’s phone, the weird tablet you forgot you had.
• Make sure the link loads fast and works.

I once scanned a QR code at a networking event and it took ages to load. Turned out they linked it to a 50MB PDF. Don’t be that person.

Step 5: Use It

Here’s where it gets real. Where are you putting this QR code for a website link?

• Business cards: Perfect for networking events. It says “I’m prepared and tech savvy”.
• Event banners: Imagine your QR code on a big screen at a conference, leading to your schedule or key downloads.
• Product packaging: If you’re in e-commerce, link to an instructional video or a VIP discount page.

And don’t just put it on everything. Think about where people will naturally see it. And have enough time to scan it.

Best Materials to Print QR Codes for Website

1. High Quality Materials: Use glossy paper, plastic or metal for printing, especially if the QR code will be used outdoors or handled frequently.
2. Contrast: Use dark colored QR codes on light backgrounds (e.g. black on white) for high contrast scanning.
3. No Gloss: For printed materials like banners or brochures, avoid glossy finishes that will reflect light and interfere with scanning.
4. Size: Make sure the QR code is big enough for its purpose. For example posters need to be at least 2×2 inches, business cards can be smaller.
5. Wear and Tear: Use coatings or lamination to prevent smudging, fading or damage to the QR code especially for outdoor or long term use.
6. Test Before Printing: Always test the QR code for scannability on multiple devices and lighting conditions before printing in bulk.
7. Placement: Don’t put QR codes on folded sections, curved surfaces or areas that will crease, which will distort the code.
8. Call to Action: Add text like “Scan Me” or instructions to tell people to use the QR code, what it does.

By following these tips, you’ll have a scannable, durable and effective QR code on various materials and situations.

Conclusion

QR codes for websites are like tiny doors. You scan them and suddenly you’re in someone’s online world. For businesses, they’re pure gold — saving time, connecting offline moments to digital action and honestly they just look cool.

So whether it’s for your portfolio, a campaign or just to show off your tech skills, it’s worth creating one. And who knows, maybe your QR code will lead to your next big thing. Nice huh?