What are QR codes?

QR is an abbreviation of ‘Quick Response’ which is a form of 2D barcode invented in the early 1990s by Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota. They can contain up to 2400 characters. QRazyQards use this technology to produce beautiful images that are more than just pretty pictures.

How do I read the message hidden in the image?

To read a QRazyQard you’ll need a QR reader or scanner. In recent years QR scanners have become common on smart phones, tablets and phone operating systems. iPhones, iPads, Blackberries, Android phones and more can either read QR codes directly, or have free apps such as NeoReader and i-nigma available for download that can then decode the embedded information.

Do QR codes do anything other than spell out a word?

Yes! QR codes can contain text, vCards or links to websites. Of course, once you reach the internet, they can connect to any media including images, sound and video. QRazyQards use a variety of content, some of which require an internet connection to function fully. Wi-Fi or 3G is required for internet connectivity through a smartphone or tablet computer. Please be aware that third party charges may apply for connection, and download or access speeds can vary.

Why do your designs not look like standard QR codes?

Unlike most 1D barcodes (which are widely used for retail products) QR codes allow for degrees of degradation. This means we can manipulate the QR codes we generate for our QRazyQards, whilst still allowing them to be machine readable. We’re just playing around with little squares!

Do all your designs work?

We’ve tested all our QRazyQard designs on a base level of the iPhone 3 (using iOS 4.2.1). They all work, although lighting conditions, reflections and distance will affect how quickly any image is read. A degree of trial and error is involved, some designs read better close-up, others from a distance. Our favourite scanners are NeoReader and i-nigma, which both read all our designs. Fishcake! (cake number 13) is sometimes the slowest to read and works best for us using i-nigma - but it’s a pretty design in its own right...

Are you planning to expand your ranges?

We started QRazyQards with three ranges: cakes, tea and coffee. Then we did the Stokes Croft range and added video links. We’re now working on others, including the usual greetings occasions such as happy birthday and merry christmas. We have plans to make these much more interactive, so keep checking back here to see what we’re doing.

Are you able to undertake bespoke commissions?

Of course. Contact us.

I don’t live in the UK. How can I order your QRazyQards?

We’ll be expanding our online shop delivery areas to cater for international shipping during September 2011. In the meantime, please just send us an email with your requirements and we’ll let you know the arrangements. We can currently accept payments by PayPal for international shipments.

I’m a retailer. How do I stock QRazyQards, and what are your wholesale prices?

Send us an email. We’d love to see our QRazyQards in new locations.

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