How to Create an NFT Token for Free and Sell It on NFT Marketplaces: Complete Guide

How to Create an NFT Token

NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token, a unique digital asset that can be used to prove ownership of specific items in the digital realm. Minting an NFT token refers to the process of creating and recording it on a blockchain network, establishing its authenticity and ownership.

An NFT can represent virtually anything that exists in digital space. This includes social media posts, digital artwork in formats like JPG or PNG, music albums, video clips, virtual real estate, and even in-game items. In recent years, NFT art collections have achieved remarkable success, revolutionizing how digital creators monetize their work.

Through blockchain technology, artists from anywhere in the world can connect directly with art collectors and sell their creations in a secure, transparent manner. The barrier to entry has been significantly lowered, meaning anyone with digital content can learn how to create and sell NFT art.

However, creating NFTs traditionally involves gas fees - transaction costs required to process operations on the blockchain. Most NFTs are created on Ethereum, which has historically been known for high gas fees that can sometimes exceed the value of the NFT itself for new creators.

To create and mint NFTs, you'll need a cryptocurrency wallet such as MetaMask, along with some Ethereum to cover gas fees. Fortunately, it's now possible to create and sell NFTs for free by leveraging specific blockchains like Ethereum with lazy minting or alternative networks like Polygon that offer significantly lower transaction costs.

How to Create NFT for Free

To sell NFT art without upfront costs, you first need to choose an NFT marketplace that supports free minting options. You'll also need to set up a cryptocurrency wallet to manage your digital assets and connect to these platforms.

You can create and sell NFTs on numerous specialized platforms, each with its own features and community. The most popular and trusted platforms include OpenSea and Rarible, both of which support free NFT creation through innovative minting methods. When it comes to cryptocurrency wallets, many options are supported by these platforms, but MetaMask remains one of the most widely used and beginner-friendly choices.

An important aspect of these popular NFT marketplaces is that while they allow free minting of NFTs, they typically charge a service fee of 2.5% on the sale price for each NFT transaction. This fee structure ensures the platform can maintain its services while removing barriers for new creators.

How to Create an NFT Token for Free on OpenSea

Install MetaMask Wallet

MetaMask is one of the most popular cryptocurrency wallets, functioning as a browser extension that seamlessly integrates with NFT platforms. Download the wallet from the official MetaMask website. If you don't already have one, create a new wallet by following the guided steps provided during installation.

It's crucial to write down your recovery phrase on paper and store it in a secure location, as this phrase is essential for recovering your wallet if you lose access to your device. You'll also need to set a strong password for your wallet. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, as it provides complete access to your funds.

Connect MetaMask to OpenSea

Navigate to the OpenSea marketplace and click on the wallet icon in the upper right corner to initiate the connection process. Select MetaMask from the list of available wallets and confirm the connection request in your MetaMask wallet popup. After successfully connecting your wallet to the NFT marketplace, you'll be able to view and customize your profile, which is important for building credibility with potential buyers.

Create and Mint NFT for Free on OpenSea

You can choose between creating a single token or an NFT collection. It's generally recommended to mint an NFT collection rather than individual pieces, as collections tend to perform better in the marketplace and attract more collector interest.

To create a single NFT, click on Create (in the upper right menu). To create an NFT collection, click on the account icon (upper right corner) > My Collections > Create a Collection.

For each item or NFT you want to create, you'll need to provide:

• Digital artwork file (image, video, audio, or 3D model)
• Name for your NFT
• External link (optional, can link to your website or social media)
• Description that explains the concept and story behind your work
• Collection assignment
• Properties or traits that make your NFT unique
• Unlockable content (exclusive benefits for the buyer)
• Supply quantity
• Blockchain selection

Since you want to create and sell NFTs for free, it's critical to select the Polygon blockchain instead of the default Ethereum option. This is the key to avoiding upfront gas fees.

Polygon is one of the best networks for NFT creation because it offers significantly lower fees and higher transaction speeds compared to Ethereum mainnet. In this case, it allows OpenSea creators to mint NFTs completely free of charge, with the platform handling the technical aspects.

Click Create, and your first NFT will be minted and ready for listing.

List Your NFT for Sale

To list your NFT for sale, navigate to your newly created NFT and click on Sell (in the upper right corner).

You can set your desired price for the NFT, choosing between fixed price listings or auction formats. Consider researching similar NFTs in your category to set competitive pricing.

After setting all the details including price, duration, and any special terms, click Complete Listing, and your NFT will be available for purchase on the marketplace.

Remember that OpenSea charges a 2.5% service fee, which will be deducted from the sale price after your NFT sells. This fee is automatically calculated and deducted during the transaction.

What is Lazy Minting

Lazy minting is an innovative process that allows NFTs to be minted at the time of purchase rather than at the time of creation, and was developed specifically to eliminate any upfront costs for new creators. This method is available on the most popular marketplaces, including OpenSea and Rarible.

This approach was introduced in recent years as gas fees proved to be a significant barrier for creators, particularly those who are newcomers to the NFT space and couldn't afford to pay potentially hundreds of dollars in fees before making any sales.

With lazy minting, it's possible to defer the cost of minting an NFT until it's sold to the first buyer. Essentially, the NFT exists off-chain until the moment it's purchased for the first time. The transaction that assigns the NFT to the buyer is also responsible for paying the gas fees, meaning the creator doesn't have to bear any additional costs to the platform upfront.

This democratizes NFT creation, allowing artists to test the market with multiple pieces without financial risk.

How to Create an NFT Token for Free on Rarible

Rarible is another highly popular marketplace for NFT art with a strong community focus. To connect with Rarible, you need a cryptocurrency wallet such as MetaMask.

Install MetaMask Wallet

This step is identical to the OpenSea platform process. If you don't have a MetaMask wallet, install and create a wallet on your device following the official setup process. Remember to securely save your secret recovery phrase in a safe, offline location.

Connect MetaMask to Rarible

Go to Rarible.com and connect your MetaMask wallet by clicking Sign In > Sign In with MetaMask. A popup will appear asking you to confirm the connection.

How to Create an NFT Token on Rarible and Sell It

After confirming the connection to the marketplace and accepting Rarible's Terms of Service, you can click Create (in the upper right corner) to begin creating a new NFT on Rarible.

Select the Ethereum blockchain and choose between Single or Multiple NFTs. Choosing the "Multiple" option means you want to create an NFT collection, which is considered the more popular and potentially profitable option.

Next, you'll need to enter all the details about your new NFT, including:

• Digital file (image, video, audio)
• Type of sale (fixed price, timed auction)
• Price in ETH or other supported currencies
• Unlockable content for buyers
• Collection assignment
• Free minting option
• Name that captures attention
• Description explaining your artwork's concept and value
• Royalties percentage for secondary sales

It's important to select the Rarible collection if you want to use the free minting feature. This is a specific requirement for accessing lazy minting on the platform.

You must also ensure that the free minting option is enabled. Checking this option means that NFTs are only minted when the NFT first sells on the platform, and the buyer pays the gas fees rather than the creator.

After entering all the data and ensuring everything is correct, scroll down and click Create Item to mint your first NFT token on Rarible.

Once created, your NFTs will be available for sale on Rarible. However, until someone actually purchases the NFT, it won't be recorded on the Ethereum blockchain, remaining in a pending state that doesn't incur costs.

How to Sell NFT

Now that you've learned how to list your NFTs on OpenSea and Rarible, you need to focus on two main aspects of successfully selling NFTs: building a community around your NFTs and effectively promoting them to reach potential buyers.

Building a Community

Creating a community around your NFTs is a crucial step for any new NFT artist looking to establish credibility and generate sales. OpenSea and other popular NFT marketplaces use social proof to verify the legitimacy of the artist behind the NFT art. OpenSea requires you to link at least one social media channel that you manage for your NFT collection.

Set a goal to inform your audience that you're interested in NFTs and are creating digital art. Spread the word whenever your first NFT collection drops. Experts recommend releasing a limited edition NFT collection to increase your potential profits and build a dedicated following. Limited supply creates scarcity, which can drive demand and higher prices.

Engage with other NFT creators and collectors, participate in community discussions, and share behind-the-scenes content about your creative process to build authentic connections.

NFT: How to Create and Promote Your Collection

You need to learn how to promote your NFTs effectively to maximize your chances of selling your digital art. You can't simply list them and expect people to discover and purchase them without any marketing effort. Your NFTs should be promoted among your followers across all available social media channels with consistent, engaging content.

Most successful NFT artists leverage Twitter, Telegram, Discord, and Reddit to stay connected with their fans and build anticipation for new releases. Create a content calendar, share your artistic journey, offer sneak peeks of upcoming work, and engage authentically with your community. Consider collaborating with other artists, participating in NFT spaces and discussions, and potentially offering giveaways to generate initial interest.

Which Marketplace is Better for Selling NFT: OpenSea or Rarible

Now that you know how to sell NFTs on both OpenSea and Rarible platforms, you might be wondering which NFT marketplace is better for your specific needs. The answer depends on your existing community, established fan base, the different features of the platforms, and your personal preferences as a creator.

OpenSea and Rarible are two of the most popular NFT marketplaces and they share many similarities in terms of functionality and user experience. However, one important difference is the ability to mint NFTs on different blockchains. OpenSea offers creators the option of Ethereum or Polygon, with Polygon being the preferred choice for free minting. Rarible offers creators the ability to mint NFTs on Ethereum, Flow, and Tezos, providing more blockchain diversity.

Another feature available on Rarible is the ability to apply for a verified badge, which guarantees "legitimacy" and can help build trust with potential buyers. This verification can be particularly valuable for new artists trying to establish credibility in a crowded marketplace.

Ultimately, many successful NFT creators use both platforms simultaneously to maximize their reach and sales opportunities, as each platform has its own unique community and collector base.

FAQ

What are NFT tokens and how do they differ from cryptocurrencies?

NFT tokens are non-fungible tokens representing unique digital assets, unlike cryptocurrencies which are interchangeable. Each NFT has a unique identifier making it irreplaceable, commonly used for digital art, collectibles, and gaming items.

Is creating NFT tokens completely free? What fees need to be paid?

Creating NFT tokens isn't completely free. You'll pay gas fees on blockchain networks. Some platforms offer free minting, but selling typically incurs transaction fees, listing fees, and commissions depending on the network and platform you choose.

How to create NFTs for free? What free tools and platforms are available to use?

Use platforms like OpenSea or Rarible for free NFT creation. OpenSea offers lazy minting on Ethereum—pay gas fees only when sold. Rarible provides low-barrier entry. Polygon-based platforms eliminate all fees while maintaining blockchain legitimacy. DaVinci Gallery and similar emerging platforms remove technical barriers for beginners.

Do you need programming skills to create NFTs? Can non-technical people operate it?

No programming skills required. Non-technical users can easily create NFTs using user-friendly no-code platforms and tools. Most NFT creation platforms offer simple drag-and-drop interfaces, making the process accessible to everyone regardless of technical background.

What are the most popular NFT trading markets?

The most popular NFT trading markets include OpenSea, Rarible, Axie Infinity, SuperRare, and Nifty Gateway. Each platform specializes in different NFT categories such as digital art, gaming collectibles, and virtual items, offering varying fee structures and user experiences.

How to list and sell my NFT tokens on NFT marketplaces?

Choose a fixed price or auction format, submit your NFT for approval, set the listing date and time, then publish. Monitor transaction volume and adjust pricing strategy accordingly for optimal sales performance.

What fees do I need to pay when selling NFTs? (Gas fees, platform fees, etc.)

NFT sales involve gas fees for blockchain transactions, platform commission fees (typically 2.5%), and creator royalties (usually 5-15%). Gas fees vary based on network congestion. Total costs can significantly reduce your net proceeds from sales.

What are the risks and legal issues to consider when creating and selling NFTs?

Creating and selling NFTs requires ensuring you hold proper rights to avoid copyright and intellectual property infringement. Key concerns include legal compliance, tax obligations, and regulatory requirements in your jurisdiction. Always verify ownership rights before minting to prevent potential legal liability.

How to price NFTs? What kind of NFTs are easier to purchase?

Price NFTs based on rarity, utility, and artist reputation. Limited edition, utility-based, and artist-backed NFTs sell better. Consistent marketing, community engagement, and transparent value proposition drive sales.

Do I need a wallet to trade NFTs? How do I set up and protect my crypto wallet?

Yes, NFT trading requires a wallet. Use software wallets like MetaMask or hardware wallets like Ledger. Set up by downloading the app, creating a seed phrase, and securing it offline. Protect your wallet by enabling two-factor authentication, avoiding blind signatures, using multiple accounts, and regularly revoking unnecessary contract approvals through tools like Revoke.cash.