QR code cross stitch pattern maker
Type a link, a message or your Wi-Fi details and get a cross stitch QR code that phones can scan, with DMC colours, the finished size and a printable chart.
How to cross stitch a QR code that scans
- Make the pattern above and scan the chart on your screen with your phone. If it opens the right page, the pattern is right.
- Use high contrast. Black thread (DMC 310) on white Aida is the most reliable. Dark navy or dark green on white also scan.
- Keep the blank border. The 4 empty squares around the code tell the phone where the code starts. Don't frame or stitch over them.
- Stitch full crosses with 2 strands on 14-count so each square is solid. Gaps between squares are fine; missing squares are not.
- Check as you go. Scan it when half done. QR codes have built-in error correction, so a phone often reads it before you finish, but a wrong square can still stop it.
How big will it be?
The more text, the more squares. These are typical sizes with the standard 4-square border, at one stitch per QR square:
| Text up to | Stitches | 14-count Aida | 18-count Aida |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 characters | 29 × 29 | 2.1 in (5.3 cm) | 1.6 in (4.1 cm) |
| 26 characters | 33 × 33 | 2.4 in (6.0 cm) | 1.8 in (4.7 cm) |
| 42 characters | 37 × 37 | 2.6 in (6.7 cm) | 2.1 in (5.2 cm) |
| 62 characters | 41 × 41 | 2.9 in (7.4 cm) | 2.3 in (5.8 cm) |
| 84 characters | 45 × 45 | 3.2 in (8.2 cm) | 2.5 in (6.3 cm) |
Want it bigger? Set 2 × 2 stitches per QR square in Settings. A short link then fills about 5 inches of 14-count Aida.
Ideas for a QR code cross stitch
- Wi-Fi password sampler for the hallway or guest room. Guests scan to join.
- Wedding or baby website on a framed sign, or a link to a shared photo album.
- Your shop or portfolio stitched onto a tote bag or a market stall sign.
- A hidden message or a playlist for a birthday card, or the classic Rick Roll link as a joke gift.
More QR code patterns: knitted qr code, crochet qr code, perler bead qr code, embroidery qr code.
Questions
Will a cross stitched QR code really scan?
Yes. Phone cameras read stitched QR codes well as long as the squares are dark on a light background, the blank border is kept, and no squares are missed. Scan the chart on screen first, then scan your stitching when it is about half done to catch any mistakes early.
How big will my QR code be?
It depends on how much it holds. A short link makes a code of about 29 to 37 squares including the border, which is 2 to 2.7 inches on 14-count Aida. The pattern maker shows the exact size, and you can stitch each QR square as 2 × 2 stitches for a bigger piece.
Which fabric and thread should I use?
White or very light Aida with black thread (DMC 310) gives the strongest contrast. 14-count with 2 strands gives solid, well covered squares. Avoid dark fabric with light thread: many phones cannot read light-on-dark codes.
Can I make a Wi-Fi QR code?
Yes. Choose Wi-Fi network, type your network name and password, and guests can join by pointing their phone camera at your stitching. It makes a lovely framed gift for a new home.
Will the link stop working?
No. The link or text is stored in the pattern itself, so there is no subscription and nothing expires. It opens whatever page the link points to, so use a link you control.
Is it free?
Yes. QR codes up to 80 × 80 stitches download free with a printable PDF chart, which covers almost every link.