Core guide
Branded QR code generator: make a QR from your artwork
Qurbo creates branded QR codes from your logo, illustration or product artwork. Upload an image, choose the page you want the scan to open, and place the result on packaging, cards or campaign materials.
In an image-based branded QR, your artwork is a prominent part of the design. The image gives the code its visual identity; the destination link gives the reader their next step. Here’s how that works with Qurbo’s own logo, and how to make one for your brand.
This example starts with Qurbo’s gradient Q. In the finished QR, the large Q keeps its shape and colours, with space between its tail and the surrounding dark modules.
A card that shows the brand and the next step
The card pairs the QR with a simple invitation: “Scan to discover Qurbo”. Scanning opens the Qurbo homepage. The Q, the Qurbo name and the destination all belong to the same brand, so the card explains both who it is from and what to do with it.
Use the same three decisions for your own piece: which artwork identifies the brand, where the whole QR and its clear border will fit, and what the invitation promises. “Explore the collection” should open that collection; “View the guide” should open the guide.
Choose the destination for the person holding the card or package. A product page, brand story or campaign page can each give the scan a clear purpose.
Which QR design fits your piece?
A plain QR, a logo overlay and an image-based QR can all open a link. Choose according to the role you want the brand artwork to play.
- Plain QR. Use a conventional code when you need a straightforward link. Your packaging, card or poster can supply the brand colours and artwork around it.
- Logo overlay. A logo sits over a small area of a conventional QR. Choose this approach when a small brand badge is enough for the layout.
- Image-based branded QR. The supplied image is a prominent part of the result, as the Q is in this example. Choose it when you want the artwork to be a main feature of the code.
Qurbo uses managed links, so you can change a destination while keeping the same printed QR.
How to make a branded QR from your image
- Choose your artwork. Start with a clear logo, illustration or product image. Look at it at the size you plan to use: the details that identify the brand should still be easy to see.
- Choose the destination. Paste the exact page you want to open. Match it to the invitation beside the QR, and open that page on a phone to check the experience after the scan.
- Generate and choose a result. Compare the available outputs. Look for a recognizable mark, room around the artwork and a complete code. In this example, that includes keeping the Q’s tail clear of the surrounding modules.
- Publish and place the QR. Follow Qurbo’s publishing steps, download the result and add it to your layout. Keep the full QR and its outer margin visible. Check the finished placement before ordering a batch.
On packaging, put the QR where someone can scan without opening or damaging the product. On a card or poster, give it enough space to be noticed and an invitation that names what the scan opens.
See QR placement advice for product packaging
Four checks before printing your QR
Scan a sample at its final size and on the material you plan to use. Check the layout as a whole, including the artwork and text around the QR.
- Leave a clear border. DENSO WAVE specifies a margin four QR modules wide on every side. A module is one small unit of the code’s grid. Keep text, patterns and other artwork out of that margin.
- Size it for the placement. Allow enough space for the viewing distance and material. Check a sample from the distance someone will use it. DENSO WAVE’s module-size guidance explains the printing and scanning factors.
- Keep the downloaded code intact. Avoid stretching, cropping, blurring or painting over the QR. Keep contrast between the code and its background. Position it with glare and curved surfaces in mind.
- Scan the finished sample. Use more than one phone with the final paper or material. Try the expected lighting and viewing angles, then follow the link to confirm that the right page opens.
Questions about creating and using your QR
Can I make a QR from my own artwork?
Yes. Upload your own logo, illustration or product artwork. Choose the image you want to feature in the QR’s design, then inspect how it looks in the generated result.
What page will the QR open?
You choose the destination link when you create it. Use a product page, collection, guide or campaign page. The Qurbo example on this page opens our homepage.
How do customers scan a branded QR?
Customers can use their phone’s camera or a QR scanner. They scan the code and follow the link to the destination you selected.
Can I update the link after the QR is printed?
Yes. Qurbo’s managed link lets the printed artwork stay the same when the destination changes. Paid plans allow destination editing anytime. On Free, you can edit the destination for one day after publishing. It then locks, and the QR continues opening the saved destination.
Can I see which QR codes get scanned?
Yes. Qurbo shows scan activity for your QR codes. You can see which codes are getting attention when you use them on different pieces, such as cards and packaging.
Can I publish my first QR for free?
Yes. Your first QR publication is free, with unlimited scans. Paid plans provide more codes, destination editing anytime and longer analytics history.
Make a QR for your next card, package or campaign
Choose the artwork and the page you want people to visit. Create your branded QR, add a clear invitation and check it in the finished layout. Your first QR publication is free.
For a plain QR that opens a fixed link, use our free tool. Create a plain QR.