How to make QR codes for museum exhibit labels

A QR code on an exhibit label can lead visitors to an audio guide, a translation, a short video, or more detail than the printed label can hold. But a code that is too small, points to an outdated page, or is hard to scan can interrupt a visit instead of helping.

Plan the destination first, then make and test the code at the size it will appear in the gallery. The QR Code Generator creates codes for links and lets you customize colors and add a logo.

Make a QR code for an exhibit label

Choose the page visitors should reach. Use a mobile-friendly page with the exhibit information, audio, video, or translation. Check that visitors can open it without signing in.
Open the QR Code Generator, choose a link code, and enter the full destination address. Use a stable link that your museum can keep working for the life of the label.
Generate the code and choose a dark foreground on a light background. If you add a logo, keep it small and make sure it does not cover too much of the pattern.
Save the generated code and place it in the label layout. Keep it square, do not stretch it, and leave clear space around all four sides.
Print a proof at the planned size. Scan it with at least two phones, from the distance visitors are likely to stand, and confirm that the correct page opens.

Test the actual printed proof, not just the code on your design screen. Paper, ink, glare, mounting, and the distance between the label and a visitor's phone can all affect scanning.

Choose what each code should do

Link to one exhibit page

For most labels, one code per object or exhibit section is easiest to understand. Make the page title match the object, so visitors can tell immediately that they have reached the right story. A page can include more detail, captions, audio, or translations without crowding the physical label.

Use a different language or format

If visitors need a translated description or an audio version, link to a page where they can find that option quickly. You can use a separate QR code for each language, but several codes close together can make the label confusing. Another approach is one code leading to a clear page with language and format choices.

Plan for content changes

A basic QR code stores its destination in the pattern. If that address changes, the code will not automatically follow the new page. A stable museum address that redirects to the current content can help you update the destination without replacing every printed label. Read Static vs dynamic QR codes: which do you need? before deciding how to manage changing links.

Keep a record of each code's exhibit, destination address, language, and print version. That makes it easier to find the right label if a page moves or a code needs to be replaced.

Make the code easy to scan

Make it large enough. Start with a generous size and test the printed proof at the real viewing distance. If visitors must lean close or hold their phones awkwardly, increase the code size.
Keep strong contrast. A dark code on a light, plain background is a reliable choice. Avoid pale colors, busy patterns behind the code, and glossy surfaces that reflect gallery lights. See How to choose QR code colors that still scan for more on color and contrast.
Leave a clear border. The blank area around a QR code is called the quiet zone. Do not let text, lines, borders, or nearby graphics crowd into it.
Use a logo cautiously. A logo can make a code feel connected to the exhibit, but it also hides part of the pattern. If scanning is slow or unreliable, remove the logo and test again.
Check the print and mounting. Make sure the code is sharp, flat, and not creased or blocked by a frame. Move a label away from glare if reflections make the pattern hard to see.
Verify the link after printing. Scan the finished label again, then confirm the page works on the museum's Wi-Fi and, if possible, a mobile connection. Check that the page still loads after any content update.

Give visitors another way to get the information

A QR code should add to the exhibit label, not replace the essential information on it. Include a short instruction such as “Scan for audio” or “Read the full story,” and provide a short, readable web address when space allows. Visitors may not have a smartphone, may not want to scan, or may be unable to use a camera comfortably.

Make the linked page usable on a small screen. Use readable text, clear headings, captions for video, and a visible way to return to the exhibit information. Keep the page focused, so visitors do not have to search through unrelated content while standing in a gallery.

A plain QR code does not identify who scanned it. The website it opens may record visits if the museum uses analytics, so check the museum's privacy practices before adding tracking to exhibit links.