Creating QR codes

Every QR code in Shortn opens a short link. The pattern printed on paper never changes, so you can change where the code goes after printing and still count every scan. This guide covers creating a code and getting a first file out.

Before you start

Each QR code you create counts towards your plan's monthly QR code limit, shown under Usage in the sidebar. A code can point at:

a URL: Shortn creates a short link for the code;
one of your links: the code is attached to that link and opens it.

Create a QR code

Open QR codes in the sidebar and select New QR code.
Under Destination URL, enter where a scan should take people. To use an existing link instead, select Choose a link under Or use one of your links: and pick it from the list. Use a URL instead switches back.
Optionally add a Title to help you find the code later, and Tags.
Select Create QR code.

The code's overview opens. The preview on the form uses a sample short link; your code gets its own short link when you create it.

You can also start from a link: open the link, select its QR code tab and select Create a QR code. The code is attached to that link, and you'll find it on that tab afterwards. If the link already has a code, the new one replaces it as the link's code, and the old code keeps scanning.

Design the code

Select Edit design on the overview, or open the Design tab. You can change the colours, pattern, corner styles, error correction, logo, frame and caption. The scan check on the same page warns you about low contrast or a logo that is too large. Select Save design when you're done.

Design changes never change the link inside the code. Managing QR codes explains each option.

Download the code

On the overview, under Download, select Export for print:

Choose a Format: SVG, PNG or PDF. SVG is a vector format and scales to any print size.
Choose a Size in pixels.
Select Prepare download, then Download file when it is ready.

The export page shows the recommended minimum print size for the code. For screens and email, open JPEG for screens on the overview.

Test before you print

Scan the downloaded file with two or three different phones.
Keep clear space around the code; frames and captions are placed outside it.
Keep strong contrast between the code and its background, with a dark code on a light background.
Don't print the code smaller than the recommended minimum size.
Add a short call to action near the code so people know what they'll get.

Change the destination later

Open the Details tab, change the Destination URL and select Save details. Printed copies follow the new destination from the next scan. If the code is attached to a link, select Also update the link to copy the new destination or title to that link too.