More families are adding a QR code to funeral stationery these days. Guests scan it with their phone and go straight to a livestream of the service, a shared photo album, a tribute page, or a donation link, without anyone needing to type a web address. It's a small addition that makes a program or welcome sign more useful after the day itself.
Here's where a QR code works best, and how to create one for free in Canva so you can drop it into a program, welcome sign, prayer card, or slideshow.
What a QR Code Can Link To
A QR code can point to almost anything with a web link. Some of the most common uses on funeral stationery:
- A livestream of the service, for family and friends who can't attend in person
- A shared photo album or slideshow, so guests can look back on photos after the day
- A memorial or tribute page, where the family can post updates, more photos, or details on where to send cards
- A donation page, if the family has asked for donations instead of flowers
If you don't have a dedicated website for any of these, a shared Google Photos album, an unlisted YouTube video, or a GoFundMe page all work fine. The QR code just needs a working link to point to.
Where to Place a QR Code on Each Item
Funeral Programs
A QR code fits well on the back cover of a trifold program, or in the bottom corner of a page on a bifold program where it won't crowd the order of service. Keep it printed at least 0.8 x 0.8 inches (about 2 x 2 cm) so it scans reliably from arm's length. For more ideas on what to include on a program, see our guide to memorial service program templates.
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Welcome Signs
Since a welcome sign is usually seen from a few feet away rather than held in the hand, print the QR code larger here, at least 2 x 2 inches (5 x 5 cm), and place it in a corner so it doesn't compete with the main photo or wording. A welcome sign near the entrance is a natural spot for guests to scan on their way in, especially for a livestream link.
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Prayer Cards and Bookmarks
The back of a prayer card is the easiest spot, since the front is usually reserved for a photo and a prayer or verse. The larger 4.25 x 2.5 inch prayer card format gives you a bit more room to fit the code alongside any closing text. A keepsake like this often gets picked up again weeks or months later, so it's a good place for a link to a photo album or tribute page guests can revisit any time.
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Slideshows
Add the QR code to the closing slide of a funeral slideshow so it's visible while it loops at the reception. This is a good spot for a link to a shared photo album, since guests are already in a reflective, photo focused mindset at that point. For more on putting one together, see how to make a good slideshow for a funeral.
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How to Create a QR Code in Canva
Canva has a free QR code generator built right in, and the image it creates can be copied into any design, including Word or PowerPoint templates, not just Canva ones.
- Open any Canva design, or start a blank one.
- Go to "Elements" and search "QR code." A banner with two options will appear: "Create static" and "Create dynamic." The easiest option is to select "Create static".
- In the URL box, paste in the link you want the code to point to (your livestream, photo album, tribute page, or donation link).
- Click Generate code and Canva generates the QR code instantly. Resize it by dragging a corner, keeping the proportions locked so it stays scannable.
- To use it outside Canva, right click the QR code and select "Download Selection". Select File type as PNG and click Download. You can then insert this QR code image into a Word or PowerPopint template by clicking Insert > Pictures > Picture from file.
Before printing, always test the code with your own phone camera from a few different distances to make sure it scans cleanly.
Printing Your Stationery
Once your QR code is in place, you can print at home, at a local print shop, or through an online printing service. Prints of Love is a good option if you'd rather not handle printing yourself, though it's worth asking any printer in advance whether they can reproduce small QR codes clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Canva Pro account to create a QR code?
No. Canva's QR code generator is free to use, no paid subscription required.
Will the QR code still work if I resize it?
Yes, as long as you resize it proportionally (hold the corner handle rather than dragging a side). Stretching it out of shape can make it unreadable.
Can I use the same QR code on more than one item?
Yes. Once you've created a QR code linking to your chosen page, you can copy and paste that same image onto a program, welcome sign, prayer card, and slideshow.
What if I don't have a livestream or tribute page set up yet?
A shared Google Photos album or an unlisted YouTube video both work well and take only a few minutes to set up, even if you're not especially tech savvy.
Does the QR code need to be in color?
No. A black and white QR code scans just as reliably as a colored one, and often stands out more clearly on a printed design.
Related reading: How Do You Make a Good Slideshow for a Funeral? · Elegant & Personalized Funeral Welcome Signs · Memorial Service Program Templates · Funeral Poster Wording Ideas
