When creating and submitting artwork containing QR codes or barcodes, it is crucial to ensure they are functional and meet the requirements for accurate scanning. Below, we provide some essential tips and considerations to help you prepare your artwork for printing.
1. Double-Check Functionality
Before submitting your artwork, test your QR codes and barcodes to confirm they work as intended. This ensures they will scan correctly when printed. Testing can be done using:
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QR code scanning apps on smartphones.
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Barcode scanners or apps designed for barcode validation.
2. Consider the Impact of Bleed Adjustments
If your job is submitted as a Just Print order without a bleed, we will adjust the artwork to include one. This adjustment involves enlarging the entire design, which will also enlarge any QR codes or barcodes. Enlarging these elements could potentially affect their scannability, especially if:
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The code's resolution is low.
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The quiet zone (the blank margin around the code) becomes too small or uneven.
To avoid issues, always provide your artwork with the correct bleed and ensure that QR codes and barcodes are high-resolution.
3. Best Practices for Including QR Codes and Barcodes
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Resolution: Ensure your QR codes and barcodes are at least 300 dpi for crisp, clear printing.
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Safe Zone: Maintain a clear margin around the code to ensure easy scanning.
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Size: Avoid making the codes too small. A minimum size of 2 cm x 2 cm for QR codes is recommended for easy scanning.
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Contrast: Use high-contrast colour combinations, such as black codes on a white background.
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Positioning: Place the codes on flat, non-reflective surfaces in the design. Avoid areas near folds or edges of printed materials.
4. Final Checks Before Submission
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Review your artwork for bleed inclusion.
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Test the functionality of your codes one final time.
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Ensure compliance with the above best practices.