Ever since NFTs boomed and everyone got hyped, many people have been interested in how to mint NFTs for free. Whether you're an aspiring artist or an entrepreneur, the first crucial step you should take is to learn about free NFT minting.
If you are new to this realm, don't worry, “minting” an NFT means the same thing as “creating” one. Besides, with this comprehensive guide in hand, you will be able to walk through the process of minting your very first NFT for free in no time.
While some blockchains indeed impose hefty gas fees on creators, platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable support alternatives that embrace even free mint NFT projects. That said, let's get to it!
Key Takeaways
- Minting an NFT for free means minting one without incurring any gas fees;
- Gas fees differ based on the blockchain in question. For example, Ethereum is known to charge pretty high fees, while Polygon is known for charging very low fees;
- While minting NFTs for free eliminates gas fees during the creation process, note that other fees may still apply, such as fees for selling or transferring NFTs;
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Table of Contents
Things to Consider Before Minting NFTs
Whether to release your own free mint NFT drops or just to understand how to mint NFTs for free, you’ll need to get a grasp on how the minting process is done. As you already know, "minting" refers to the creation of an NFT. This involves two things: the generation of a unique digital asset on a blockchain, and a smart contract that enables this process[1].
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The blockchain-based authentication ensures the uniqueness and scarcity of the NFT, giving it inherent value in the digital marketplace. However, before understanding how to mint NFTs for free, you have to make some important decisions that will determine how your free NFT minting project will turn out:
✓ Choose The Type of Content
It’s important to decide what content to use to mint a free NFT. While images are the most commonly used type of content for NFTs, different platforms may offer the flexibility to upload audio, video, or even plain metadata text.
This opens up a realm of possibilities, so don't be afraid to think outside the box and get creative. Remember, the value people place on your NFT will be heavily influenced by the type of content you choose.
Most importantly, ensure that you have the necessary rights and permissions to upload and use the material you’re planning to use. This applies to any type of media or data you select for your tokens.
✓ Choose Between a Collection or an Individual NFT
When minting your free NFT, you will often have the choice between creating an individual NFT or a series. This decision allows you to create your approach to the exclusivity of your digital assets.
Let’s put it this way: opting for an individual NFT means creating a one-of-a-kind digital asset. Similar to owning an original artwork, an individual NFT is unique and cannot be replicated or reproduced.
Minting your NFT as a series, however, allows you to create multiple similar copies of the digital asset. In the physical art world, this concept is comparable to numbered prints or limited editions. Of course, each piece is still one-of-a-kind, even if it is from a collection of similar artworks.
Thus, a series provides a chance to generate multiple NFTs based on a particular design, image, or concept. Each NFT within the series can be numbered or labeled accordingly, indicating its place within the collection.
Ultimately, the choice between an individual NFT or a series depends on your intent, the value you wish to assign to your digital assets, and the preferences of your target audience. Take the time to carefully consider your options and select the approach that best reflects the vision and objectives of your project.
✓ Choose a Blockchain
Choosing the right platform and blockchain is a crucial step in the process, and that’s even more important if you’re a beginner and just started wondering how to mint NFTs for free. The blockchain you select will impact many fronts, including security, scalability, transaction costs, environmental impact, and exposure.
Ethereum has long been the dominant force in the NFT space due to its early adoption, robust smart contract functionality, and a vibrant ecosystem of NFT marketplaces like OpenSea. However, concerns regarding Ethereum's high gas fees and environmental footprint have prompted the exploration of alternative blockchains.
Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Arbitrum, Base, Polygon, and many more have emerged as viable alternatives, each offering distinct features and advantages for NFT creators and enthusiasts. Binance Smart Chain, for instance, boasts lower transaction fees and faster confirmation times compared to Ethereum, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability and efficiency.
Ultimately, the choice of blockchain for NFT minting depends on the specific needs and priorities of individual creators and investors.
✓ Choose a Platform
Now, you should also choose a platform for your NFT minting. Opt for platforms that offer user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive guides to support you throughout the minting process. Below you'll find guides on how to mint NFT for free on a few of the most popular platforms, so that might make it easier for you to choose.
Additionally, if you are not minting on a centralized exchange like Binance, you will need a separate wallet to store and manage your NFTs.
For that reason, it's essential to familiarize yourself with wallet options compatible with your chosen blockchain. If you're looking for very strong security, I suggest considering a hardware wallet, like Ledger Nano X, for example.
✓ Get Familiar with NFT Minting Fees
If you're looking for how to mint NFT for free, you probably want a platform without fees. However, you still need to know what kind of fees you might come across (and there's no platform that doesn't charge ANY fees).
Firstly, when minting an NFT on a blockchain, there are transaction fees known as gas fees. These fees compensate miners for validating and processing transactions. The complexity of the minting process and the current network congestion can affect the gas fees. These are exactly the fees you can avoid when looking for a way of how to mint NFT for free.
Secondly, NFT marketplaces usually charge fees for listing NFTs and facilitating transactions. These platform fees cover the operational costs of running the platform, including hosting, maintenance, and development. They may be structured as a percentage of the sale price or a flat fee per transaction.
Moreover, when you sell an NFT on a marketplace, there are royalty fees, which entitle you to a percentage of future sales of the NFT (if you're the creator). While not directly related to the minting process, these fees are important to consider as they affect the overall profitability and value proposition for creators.
All these fees contribute to the overall cost of minting NFTs and may vary depending on factors such as the blockchain used, the specific NFT marketplace, and the complexity of the minting process.
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How to Mint an NFT for Free?
Now, without further ado, let's get practical and talk about how to mint NFT for free. However, note that different NFT minting platforms might have different specifics. Thus, in the following section, we will explore step-by-step free NFT minting processes on OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable.
On OpenSea
OpenSea is an NFT marketplace that also acts as a minting platform. It supports multiple blockchains, including Ethereum, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, Klaytn, Avalanche, Base, and Zora. Its primary focus is fostering a thriving ecosystem for creators, buyers, and sellers.
So, let's see how to mint NFT for free on OpenSea.
Step 1: Connect to OpenSea with your crypto wallet or email. You can connect a variety of wallets, but, in this example, I'll use my Coinbase Wallet (make sure to have a wallet browser extension installed for the smoothest experience).
Step 2: Once you're in, click "Create", which you'll find at the top left corner of the screen.
You'll be taken to the creation page, where you'll have to pick whether you want to drop an NFT collection or mint an NFT.
What's the difference? If you mint an NFT, it will be minted directly into your wallet, and then you can list it on the marketplace. If you drop an NFT, on the other hand, you'll essentially create a collection and the buyers will be the ones minting the NFTs once they purchase them. You might even make it a mystery and only reveal the NFT once they buy it.
Step 3: Let's say you've chosen the "Mint an NFT" option. Then, you'll be taken to the NFT creation window.
Here, you have to upload the file that represents your NFT, come up with a name and supply, write a description (if you want), and add NFT traits, which describe your item's attributes (also optional).
Though, note that you also have to create a collection for your NFT (or choose one you already have). Upload a logo image, come up with a name, a token symbol, and, most importantly, choose the blockchain.
Now, you'll see the estimated contract deployment fees of every contact. As of writing, Klaytn and Zora don't impose any fees. So, you have to choose either of those to mint NFT for free.
Step 4: Your wallet extension will pop up, asking you to switch the network to the one you've chosen. Do that and then approve contract deployment.
Once everything is confirmed, your collection will be set, and you will be able to return to the NFT creation window.
Step 5: Then, just make sure everything is filled out correctly and click "Create". You'll need to approve the transaction in your wallet again.
Congratulations! You have successfully minted your first NFT on OpenSea. You can now list it on the marketplace, just note that 2.5% of the sale price will go to OpenSea.
On Rarible
Rarible is a platform built on the Ethereum blockchain that enables users to create and sell digital assets. It supports Ethereum, Base, Polygon, RARI Chain, Astar zkEvm, Kroma, zkSync, and Immutable X networks.
How to mint NFT for free on Rarible? Through lazy minting. If you create your NFT via this feature, it will only be minted once a buyer purchases it (and they will cover the minting fee).
To free mint NFT drops on Rarible, follow these steps:
Step 1: Click on the "Connect Wallet" button at the top right corner of the screen to set up your account. Again, you can connect various wallets.
Once you connect your wallet, you'll be also asked to come up with a name and fill in your email address.
Step 2: After signing in, hover your mouse over the "Create" button and click on "NFT".
Choose the blockchain for your NFT creation. This time, I went with Ethereum.
Then, choose where you want to create a single NFT or multiple NFTs (I went with the former).
Step 3: Upload the data for your NFT and fill out the necessary information, such as the title, description, price, royalties, and so on.
Switch to the "Free minting" option on Rarible to enable free minting. This allows you to mint your NFT without incurring any fees.
Step 4: Once everything is set, click on the "Create item" button and authorize the transaction using your crypto wallet. That's it!
However, while the minting process will be free for you, Rarible charges a 7.5% listing fee. To eliminate this fee, you have to lock some RARI tokens.
On Mintable
Mintable is another NFT platform built on Ethereum that stands out from others due to its gasless NFT creation process, which is not only free but also user-friendly. It supports Ethereum and XRP blockchains.
The platform offers a seamless experience, making it particularly suitable for beginners in the NFT space. However, it is important to note that Mintable does charge a 5% service fee upon the successful completion of a sale.
Now, on how to mint an NFT for free on Mintable – simply follow these steps:
Step 1: Sign up on Mintable. Here, you cannot just simply connect your wallet and be all set, you have to complete the usual registration process.
Step 2: Once you have completed the sign-up process and verified your email, connect your wallet to Mintable. However, note that it only supports MetaMask.
Step 3: Now, click "Mint" to initiate the NFT creation process.
Select the network you want to mint on and the "Gasless" option, since you're looking for how to mint NFT for free.
Step 4: Provide details about your NFT, such as the title and description, and upload the digital file you wish to turn into an NFT. Once you have completed these steps, click on "List NFT". You can also choose between fixed-price and auction market options here.
Finish by signing a message to list your NFT for sale. Your NFT will be listed and made available for purchase on the Mintable Gasless Shop after a quick review and approval.
You Have Your NFT, What to Do Next?
So, now that you know how to mint NFT for free (and, hopefully, have already minted one), let's talk about what to do next. Well, it's time to promote it and make sure it gets the attention it deserves. How to do that?
✓ Leverage Social Media
Social media platforms are powerful tools for promoting your NFT. Share engaging and visually appealing posts about your artwork or digital asset across many social platforms. Use relevant hashtags, join NFT communities, and interact with potential buyers and collectors.
Building a strong online presence and engaging with your audience can significantly boost the visibility of your NFTs.
✓ Collaborate with Influencers and Creators
Partnering with influencers and creators in the NFT space can expose your artwork to their established audiences.
Look for influencers who align with your style, genre, or theme, and reach out to them for potential collaborations. They can help showcase your NFT to their followers and bring more attention to your work.
✓ Offer Limited-Time Promotions or Discounts
To create a sense of urgency and incentivize potential buyers, consider offering limited-time promotions or discounts for your NFT.
This can help attract initial buyers and generate buzz around your artwork. Leverage the power of platforms and marketplaces that allow promotional features to increase the visibility of your discounted NFT.
✓ Engage with Collectors and Buyers
When someone shows interest in your NFT or purchases it, take the opportunity to engage with them. Show appreciation for their support, answer any questions they may have, and consider offering exclusive perks or rewards to your early buyers.
Building a relationship with your collectors can lead to repeat purchases and positive word-of-mouth promotion.
Just remember, that promoting your NFT is an ongoing process. Be persistent, adaptive, and open to exploring new promotional avenues. Building a strong brand and establishing a loyal following takes time and effort, so stay dedicated to your craft and keep creating remarkable NFTs.
How to Mint NFTs for Free on BitDegree?
We've been talking about how to mint NFT for free and then try to sell it. However, as the Web3 space continues to evolve, NFTs gain more and more use cases. For example, an NFT can be a unique certificate that proves your skills (much like a certificate you get for passing some specialized courses).
How to get one for free? By completing the BitDegree Web3 Exam levels!
Let me elaborate. The BitDegree Web3 Exam is a gamified learning experience that is made of four levels: Rookie, Starter, Explorer, and Evangelist. Completing these levels can help you evaluate your Web3 skills and improve them at the same time.
Plus, each level provides you with a unique NFT Certificate of Completion, which showcases your skills and, hence, acts as proof of your knowledge (you can even add it to LinkedIn). In the future, these NFTs might even have more use cases.
The best part? The Exam is free to take and the NFT minting also doesn't incur any fees. So, once you finish any Exam level (or all of them), you'll be able to mint the NFT completely for free.
Understanding NFTs
Okay, let's take a step back from the whole "How to mint NFT for free" conundrum and talk about what NFTs are and why they have become such a hot topic in the crypto scene.
NFTs stand for non-fungible tokens, named like this for being unique packets of digital data. This uniqueness is achieved because NFT tokens represent ownership over anything digital, ranging from music to artwork and beyond.
The current excitement around free mint NFT drops revolves primarily around the sale of digital assets using this kind of technology. But what exactly is NFT minting? In basic terms, the process of minting an NFT involves uniquely publishing your token on a blockchain, thereby making it available for purchase.
Keeping that in mind, it is important to note that buying, selling, and transferring NFTs often come with high gas fees. The average cost of minting an NFT collection on some blockchains can even be as high as $900.
Of course, as you already know, some blockchains are less expensive than others. For example, Polygon is known to charge lower gas fees[2], while Zora doesn't charge any gas fees.
That said, let's examine some real-life examples of successful NFT projects. Although they might not have been minted for free, it’s still very useful to see NFT applications in action.
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Renowned NFT Projects
Understanding how to mint NFTs for free comes hand in hand with catching up on how NFTs can be put into practice.
Today, the application of NFTs expands beyond finance and art, venturing into sports, fashion, and other industries. As utility-based NFTs gained traction[3], the landscape welcomed a wave of new projects, each bringing unique ideas and functionalities to the table.
Let's quickly explore four renowned NFT minting projects that have left a lasting impact on the scene.
Nouns
Launched in 2021, the Nouns NFT project has continued to grow with a focus on open-source IP creation and community governance. For that matter, nouns offer a collection of pixelated NFTs with daily auctions.
These auctions have been instrumental in generating around 29.150 ETH for the project's treasury, highlighting its success in the NFT space.
Reddit Collectible Avatars
In 2022, the Reddit collectible avatar collection gained significant popularity.
Built on the Polygon blockchain, over 7 million Reddit collectible avatars were minted, boasting more than 5.3 million unique NFT owners in the ecosystem. This project's integration with the Reddit community has contributed to its widespread adoption.
Part of the success lies in the fact that the Reddit Collectible Avatars is one of the free mint NFT projects. To offer a costless NFT that identifies you in an already thriving community is a feat!
Pudgy Penguins
Pudgy Penguins, launched in 2021, experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity in 2022. Under new ownership, the project implemented fresh strategies, including merchandising, a Sotheby's auction, and the release of a children's book.
These initiatives reinvigorated interest in Pudgy Penguins, breathing new life into the NFT collection. This happened mainly because some free NFTs were offered to starters so they could feel part of the community without having to spend to join the club.
Bored Ape Yacht Club
Amidst the rise of new players, Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) maintains its dominant position in the NFT market.
With impressive market capitalization and cultural prominence, BAYC NFTs continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. This project's enduring popularity solidifies its status as a leading player in the NFT space.
These are just a few of many renowned projects that represent the dynamic nature of the space. Of course, as new paid or free mint NFT projects roll out, the industry continues to evolve.
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Conclusions
To wrap up, you now know how to mint NFT for free and how minting opens up opportunities for creators, artists, and crypto enthusiasts. Though, note that "minting an NFT for free" essentially means avoiding gas fees when creating it, but other fees may still apply when attempting to sell or transfer it.
Also, before actually creating an NFT, keep in mind that you have to make some important decisions. This includes choosing the content, deciding between an individual NFT or a collection, selecting the platform and blockchain, and considering whether you want to list your NFT on a marketplace or not.
Platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable offer alternatives for free mint NFT projects. They provide user-friendly interfaces and guides, connecting you to audiences and opportunities within the NFT community.
If you're looking for how to mint NFT for personal use rather than commercial purposes, however, make sure to check out the BitDegree Web3 Exam.
Scientific References
1. D. Ghelani: 'What is Non-Fungible Token (NFT)? A Short Discussion About NFT Terms Used in NFT';
2. M. Rasolroveicy, M. Fokaefs: 'Performance and Cost Evaluation of Public Blockchain: An NFT Marketplace Case Study';
3. A. Park, J. Kietzmann, L. Pitt, et al.: 'The Evolution of Nonfungible Tokens: Complexity and Novelty of NFT Use-Cases'.
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