PRACTICAL GUIDE: HOW TO CREATE an NFT FROM SCRATCH

Index

• What is an NFT really?
• Practical applications of non-fungible tokens
• Complete guide to creation
• Final tips

Understanding NFTs

Unique and verifiable digital assets – this is the essence of NFTs. Unlike common files that can be copied infinitely, non-fungible tokens reside on decentralized blockchains, ensuring that each creation is unimitable and permanently traceable.

Blockchain technology democratized access to creation. Today, anyone with an internet connection can produce their own NFTs without intermediaries. This opened doors for digital artists, musicians, game producers, and creatives in general to monetize their work in ways previously impossible.

However, it is essential to understand that the process involves knowledge of blockchain networks and technical minting procedures. This learning curve is necessary to avoid costly errors.

Where are NFTs applied?

Collectibles and gaming items

Rare virtual objects can now have proven scarcity. Digital cards, characters, weapons, and skins in games function as negotiable assets, just like physical collections, but with the advantage of instant authentication.

Artistic creations

From traditional illustrations to pieces generated by artificial intelligence, all forms of visual expression can be tokenized. Artists gain full control over distribution, sales, and property tracking.

Audiovisual content

Movies, music videos, and sports broadcasts gain new commercial potential through NFTs. Creators bypass intermediaries and establish direct relationships with a global audience.

Musical and sound works

Music producers and composers can sell tracks, entire albums, or tickets for performances without depending on third-party platforms. The flexibility allows for setting limited quantities or creating unique editions.

Step-by-step process to create an NFT

Step 1: Select the appropriate blockchain network

Choosing the blockchain is irreversible after minting, so careful deliberation is required. Ethereum remains the most traditional option, but alternatives like BNB Chain, Cardano, Solana, and EOS offer distinct features.

Before deciding, research:

• Transaction fee structure
• Compatible digital wallets
• Network reputation and adoption
• Specific technical requirements

The selected network will keep a permanent record of your creation, so thorough analysis is advised.

Step 2: Set up cryptographic infrastructure

Create a compatible digital wallet with the chosen blockchain. This will be your asset manager and intermediary for transactions.

Security critical points:

• Store your private key and recovery phrase securely
• Losing these means permanent loss of access to your assets
• Never share this information with anyone

Fund your wallet with the native cryptocurrency of the network to cover (gas fees) or operational costs. You can acquire these tokens on exchange platforms or directly through the wallet interface.

Step 3: Choose an NFT marketplace platform

NFT marketplaces are continuously proliferating, offering various interfaces. Some platforms operate as complete ecosystems, allowing minting, listing, and selling in one place.

Verify compatibility with:

• Your selected blockchain
• Your digital wallet
• Supported file formats

Step 4: Materialize your NFT

Steps vary according to the platform, but the general sequence follows this pattern:

Wallet integration: Look for the option to connect your digital wallet on the marketplace. This authorizes transactions.

Access the creation function: Seek a section called “Create” or “Mint” (the terminology varies). This area guides you through the production flow.

Prepare media file:

• For visual art: use design, illustration, or animation software (Photoshop, Blender, etc.)
• For digital sculptures: 3D software supporting textures and materials in GLB format
• For photography: specialized post-processing editors
• For procedural art: text prompts in generative AI tools

Accepted formats generally include JPG, PNG for images, and GLB for 3D models.

Upload content: Send the media (image, audio, video, or supporting file) to be tokenized.

Fill in metadata:

• NFT name
• Detailed description
• Exclusive benefits (access to restricted content, invitations to communities)
• Quantity of units (option for limited series or unique edition)

Finalization: After confirming all information and network preferences, click “Create” or “Mint”. The platform will process, and your NFT will be born.

Step 5: Publish for sale

After successful creation, your NFT does not automatically appear in the sales catalog. You will need to:

• Find the “List for sale” option
• Set your desired price
• Establish additional terms

This step is optional but essential for effective monetization and promotion.

Creating NFTs on specialized platforms

Some marketplaces offer optimized experiences. To use these services, you must complete identity verification – only verified users can mint tokens.

Prerequisites:

• Identity validated by the platform
• Sufficient balance of BNB or ETH to cover fees
• Pre-created NFT collection (as required)

Operational flow:

Access your profile area and navigate to the creation section. Accept the specific terms of service – violations of platform policies may result in account suspension.

On the minting page, enter:

• Identifier name
• Description (optional but recommended field)
• Network choice (BNB Chain as default, Ethereum as alternative)
• Classification category/collection
• Asset properties (up to 100 different attributes)

The system will display an estimated fee. Review everything and confirm the operation.

Processing:

Upload will begin. An automatic verification system will analyze the content. If approved, you will receive a notification with the contract address and token ID. Click “View item” to access or “List” to sell immediately.

If the system requires extra time, you will be notified by email when completed.

Rejection possibilities:

Failures occur when content violates norms (inappropriate images, for example). If this happens 5 or more times within 24 hours, you will face a minting suspension for the same period. Technical support can assist with specific cases.

Final considerations

NFTs have redefined the digital asset ecosystem, simplifying proof of ownership and authenticity of visual, musical, and audiovisual creations.

As production tools become more accessible, the number of creators exploring these possibilities increases. However, success in creation goes beyond simply generating an attractive asset – it requires understanding economic factors, realistic pricing, and the impact of operational costs on final profitability.