How to mint an NFT: steps, costs and records
Minting an NFT creates a blockchain token and costs a network fee called gas. You need a compatible wallet, crypto for gas, and a platform that works.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20263 min readFact-checked
On this page
- Minting does not guarantee a buyer or a sale.
- A failed mint can still cost a network fee.
- Save the transaction hash and date for taxes.
- Your wallet must support the blockchain you choose.
Minting an NFT creates a blockchain token that represents ownership of a unique digital asset. The file is usually stored off-chain, such as on IPFS or Arweave, and linked through metadata.
What you need before minting
You need a wallet that supports the blockchain where the NFT will live. It needs enough cryptocurrency to cover gas, the network fee, and any mint price. Check that the platform accepts your file type.
- A crypto wallet that supports the NFT's blockchain.
- Enough cryptocurrency to cover the fee and any mint price.
- Your file saved in a format the platform accepts.
How to mint an NFT step by step
A minting platform handles the technical work, but you make the choices. Pick one that supports your blockchain and file type. Smart contracts usually mint the token and record ownership.
- 1Choose a platformPick a minting platform that supports your blockchain and file type. Check the formats it accepts.
- 2Connect your walletCheck that the network matches your blockchain before you approve the connection.
- 3Upload your fileSelect your file and confirm the platform accepts its format.
- 4Set name and royaltiesGive the NFT a name and set a royalty percentage if the platform offers it.
- 5Review and confirmReview the network fee and any mint price, then approve the transaction. Once confirmed on-chain, it cannot be reversed.
- 6Wait for confirmationThe network confirms the transaction, and the token appears in your wallet or account. The smart contract records ownership.
After you mint: records and safety
After confirmation, you hold the token. Minting does not guarantee a buyer or a sale. The IRS treats crypto as property, so a sale for dollars can be taxable.
Frequently asked questions
Gas is the fee a blockchain charges to process a transaction. Minting creates a token through a smart contract, so the network needs gas to record it.
Choose one that your wallet and the platform both support. Ethereum is a common example, and its ERC-721 standard is used for unique NFTs.
Some platforms offer free minting, but you usually still pay the network fee. That fee can change with network traffic.
A failed transaction can still cost the network fee. Check the hash on a block explorer, then try again.
