Barcode Artwork
Barcode artwork uniquely blends technology and creativity, offering a modern canvas that captivates tech-savvy and art enthusiasts alike. Designers cleverly integrate the iconic stripes of barcodes into visuals that tell stories of the brand. This fusion not only enhances the visual appeal but also embeds a digital dimension, allowing interactive experiences through scanning.
Check out some of the things that can be done with barcodes to make them stand out. We can help with this, or your graphic designer may be able to do some stuff, too. Please contact us if you want us to help arrange this.
Note – you have to be careful when creating barcode art not to infringe upon the scannable part of the barcode. This reduces the scannable area of the barcode and can make it so that the barcode doesn’t scan well. Good barcode art grows out of the bars but doesn’t cover up too much of the bars. Creating custom barcode designs requires a blend of technical precision and creativity. Here are some essential tips to guide you through the process:
Tips for custom barcode artwork
- Understand Barcode Standards: Familiarize yourself with the different types of barcodes (e.g., EAN, QR Code, Code 128) and their specific requirements. Choose the type that best suits your needs based on its application, capacity, and compatibility with scanning systems. Check EAN-13 dimensions on this page.
- Maintain Scannability: The primary function of a barcode is to be scannable. Ensure there’s sufficient contrast between the barcode and its background, keep bars clear and unobstructed, and adhere to minimum size requirements to maintain its functionality.
- Incorporate Branding Elements: Custom barcodes offer a unique opportunity to incorporate your brand’s elements. Consider integrating your logo, colour scheme, or other brand identifiers within or around the barcode in a way that does not interfere with its scannability.
- Use Creative Shapes and Patterns: While keeping the scannable area standard, you can get creative with the surrounding space or even within non-critical parts of the barcode. This could include shaping the barcode into relevant icons or embedding subtle designs that reflect your brand’s theme.
- Test Thoroughly: Before finalizing your design, test the barcode with multiple scanners and devices to ensure it scans correctly every time. This step is crucial to prevent any operational hiccups.
- Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure about any aspect of your custom barcode design, consult with a professional designer or a barcode specialist. They can provide insights on best practices and help you avoid common pitfalls.
- Consider the User Experience: Think about how your barcode will be used and the experience you want to provide. For QR codes, ensure the destination link is mobile-friendly and offers value to the user.
- Stay Informed on Technology Updates: Barcode technology and standards evolve, so stay informed about the latest developments to ensure your custom barcode remains effective and relevant.
By following these tips, you can create a custom barcode that not only enhances your brand’s visual identity but also remains functional and effective in its intended applications.
Things to avoid
- White bars – these barcodes will not scan
- Overlaying or blocking the bars completely
You can buy barcodes and images here.
