Key Takeaways
Bitcoin ordinals let you attach data permanently to individual satoshis on the Bitcoin blockchain, creating unique digital artifacts similar to NFTs.
Creating an ordinal inscription can be done without advanced technical knowledge by using third-party platforms that handle the complex steps.
Each inscription involves paying Bitcoin transaction fees, which vary depending on current network demand and file size.
Keep your inscription wallet separate from your main Bitcoin holdings to reduce risk.
Introduction
Bitcoin ordinal inscriptions allow anyone to attach data permanently to individual satoshis on the Bitcoin blockchain. The result is a digital artifact that’s stored directly on-chain and cannot be altered or deleted. Since their introduction in January 2023, ordinal inscriptions have attracted significant interest as a Bitcoin-native approach to creating unique digital items.
This guide explains what ordinal inscriptions are and walks you through one of the simpler methods for creating your own, using a platform designed for everyday users rather than developers.
What Are Bitcoin Ordinals?
The ordinals protocol assigns a unique serial number to each satoshi on the Bitcoin network, making it possible to track individual satoshis across transactions. By attaching data, called an inscription, to a specific satoshi, users can create a digital artifact stored entirely on the Bitcoin blockchain.
Ordinal inscriptions became possible following the Taproot upgrade to the Bitcoin network, which increased the amount of data that can be included in a transaction. Inscriptions can contain images, text, audio, video, or other file types, as long as they fit within the transaction size limit.
The total number of ordinal inscriptions grew from zero in February 2023 to tens of millions by 2024, and the count continues to climb. Around 85% of all inscriptions are text-based, while a smaller portion are images or other media.
Why Do People Create Ordinal Inscriptions?
Some people create ordinal inscriptions to store files they want to preserve permanently and publicly, such as documents, artwork, or personal records. Others are interested in the collectible aspect, treating inscriptions as Bitcoin-native digital items with potential scarcity value.
Bitcoin has a fixed supply, and the number of satoshis is finite. Some believe this adds a dimension of scarcity to early or rare inscriptions. That said, the inscription market is still developing, and outcomes are not guaranteed.
How to Create Your Own Ordinal Inscriptions
The technical process of creating an inscription from scratch involves installing Bitcoin Core, syncing the full blockchain, and running command-line tools. For most users, it is easier to use a third-party platform. The following steps use Gamma, a platform that simplifies the inscription process.
Step 1: Install and connect a compatible wallet
Go to gamma.io and click "Connect Wallet." The site will list compatible browser extension wallets that you can download and install. Choose one and set it up.
Store your seed phrase securely in multiple offline locations, and never share it with anyone. Use a crypto wallet dedicated to ordinals activity rather than one that holds your main Bitcoin.
Step 2: Select your inscription type
Once your wallet is connected, click "Create" to start a new inscription. For first-time users, a single inscription is easier to manage than a collection. You can also navigate directly to gamma.io/ordinals to access the creation page.
Step 3: Upload your file
Upload the file you want to inscribe. Accepted formats include WEBP (recommended), JPEG, PNG, SVG, and GIF. Keep image files under 60 KB and GIFs under 200 KB to reduce fees and processing time. Gamma may resize or compress uploaded files.
Step 4: Set your transaction fee
After uploading, choose a fee level. Higher fees increase the likelihood that your inscription will be processed quickly. Lower fees may result in long waits or, in some cases, the inscription not completing at all. Fees fluctuate with demand on the Bitcoin network, so check current network conditions before selecting a level. Larger files cost more to inscribe.
Step 5: Fill in your recipient address and complete payment
Enter the Bitcoin address where your completed inscription will be sent. This must be an ordinals-compatible wallet. You can optionally provide a refund address in case the inscription fails, and an email address to receive a receipt. Once details are confirmed, send the exact amount specified to complete the transaction. Payment must be made in a single transaction. After payment, you can check the Gamma platform for status updates. Processing can take hours or longer depending on your fee selection.
Safety Tips When Creating Ordinal Inscriptions
The ordinal inscription ecosystem is relatively new and still evolving. Following these practices can reduce your risk.
Use a separate wallet exclusively for inscription activity. Never mix it with the wallet holding your main Bitcoin.
Only send the exact amount of Bitcoin needed to pay for the inscription. Any excess funds may be difficult to recover if something goes wrong.
Research any wallet or platform you use before connecting to it. Check reviews, confirm the site URL carefully, and look for community feedback.
Start with a small, inexpensive inscription to understand the process before attempting larger files or collections.
FAQ
How much does it cost to create an ordinal inscription?
The cost depends on the size of the file you want to inscribe and current Bitcoin network fees. Smaller files, such as simple text or compact images, tend to cost less. During periods of high network activity, fees rise considerably. Check current fee estimates before starting the process.
Do I need technical skills to create an ordinal inscription?
Not necessarily. Third-party platforms like Gamma are designed for users without a technical background. The more technical approach, using Bitcoin Core and the ordinals command-line tool, requires familiarity with software installation and Bitcoin node management.
Can I sell my ordinal inscription after creating it?
There are secondary marketplaces where ordinal inscriptions can be listed and traded. Market liquidity and demand vary significantly by inscription. As with any digital asset, there is no guarantee that a buyer will be available at any given price.
What file types can I inscribe on Bitcoin?
Ordinal inscriptions support a range of file types, including images (JPEG, PNG, WEBP, GIF, SVG), text, HTML, audio, and video, subject to the transaction size limit. Text inscriptions are the most common. Image inscriptions are also popular, though larger files result in higher fees.
Closing Thoughts
Ordinal inscriptions are an interesting development in the Bitcoin ecosystem, offering a way to store files and create unique digital artifacts directly on-chain. The process has become more accessible through third-party platforms, though some complexity and risk remain.
Further Reading
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