When individuals begin studying about Bitcoin self-custody, they typically give attention to the large questions. What’s the very best pockets? How do I hold my cash secure?
However as soon as it sinks in that your pockets backup or seed phrase is your cash, extra sensible questions begin to come up. The place ought to I retailer it? Ought to I make many copies?
And just lately, somebody requested a surprisingly good one: Which one lasts longer, pencil or pen?
It might sound like a small element, however a pockets backup has to outlive not simply weeks or months, however possibly many years. And when the time comes, these 12, 20, or 24 phrases have to be clear, full, and usable.
So I began wanting into it. Pencil vs. pen turned out to be just the start. How do you make a backup that basically lasts? What small decisions right this moment might spare you stress later? And the way do you permit behind one thing your future self can truly use?
Let’s stroll by it.
Graphite isn’t ink — it’s a mineral. That makes it chemically steady and proof against fading or chemical reactions. Conservation authorities nonetheless suggest mushy graphite pencils for everlasting notations as a result of they outlast many frequent inks.
Civil Warfare diaries and previous area logs written in pencil are sometimes nonetheless legible right this moment — when saved correctly — which reveals its long-term potential. Nevertheless, graphite can smudge simply and, in very humid or tough situations, marks can fade from abrasion or put on. That’s why, for those who use a pencil, it’s price urgent firmly and storing the web page rigorously.
Ballpoint pens really feel extra everlasting, however their dye-based ink can fade over time, particularly with gentle, humidity, or warmth. Ink also can bleed if uncovered to water or spills. Archival pens keep away from this. They use pigment-based ink, which bonds to the paper and resists fading, smudging, and UV. Artists and designers use them for a motive.
If you happen to’re severe about backup sturdiness, this archival-ink test compares pens beneath water, UV, and smudge stress. It affords a visible reminder that not all ink is created equal.
Both possibility can final many years for those who select effectively and retailer it proper. For pencil, use agency strokes and steady paper. For pen, select archival ink. And no matter you employ, retailer it someplace dry and secure.
However an excellent backup wants extra than simply sturdy ink. The way you write and set up it issues too.
Earlier than you write something down, take into consideration the paper itself.
Low-cost paper can yellow, tear, or fade over time, particularly in damp or sizzling locations. Go for thick, acid-free inventory that holds up through the years. Keep away from shiny surfaces; they resist ink and smudge extra simply.
To guard in opposition to water or friction, slip the web page into an archival polyester sleeve (equivalent to Mylar or Melinex) or a water-proof zip pouch. Keep away from heat-seal lamination; it may well entice moisture, warp ink, and speed up injury over time.
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A clear setup makes issues simpler now and later.
Then tuck it away someplace safe and out of the way in which.
Want one thing even harder? Stamp your pockets backup phrases into chrome steel. Trezor Keep Metal is made for that. Steel survives hearth and water, however it’s much less discreet than paper and more durable to replace.
Recovering a pockets could be anxious, particularly for those who’ve by no means achieved it earlier than.
In case your seed phrase is written in two columns, it’s simple to lose monitor of the order. Are the phrases listed throughout or down? It’s a small element, however it may well trigger quite a lot of confusion and gradual every part down.
Numbering every phrase (1 to 12, 20, or 24) removes that guesswork.
If you happen to haven’t checked your backup earlier than, now’s an excellent time. Most {hardware} wallets supply the choice to enter your backup phrases on the machine to confirm they match. It solely takes a second, and it makes restoration simpler later.
Ensure your backup phrases are numbered and proper, and you should have one much less factor to fret about when you have to get well your pockets.
Earlier than storing your backup for good, take a second so as to add just a few useful notes.
Write the identify of the pockets you used, the date you created it, and whether or not a passphrase was a part of the setup. If it was, ensure you’ve backed up the passphrase too (whether it is misplaced, you won't be able to get well), ideally in a separate, safe place.
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Retailer your backup in a safe, memorable spot — and write down additional notes whereas it’s nonetheless contemporary. Future you'll thanks.
In case your pockets makes use of a multi-share backup, multisig, or holds a number of cash or accounts, make an observation of these particulars too. For multi-share backups, observe the whole variety of shares and what number of are wanted to get well, at the least for the shares you retain for your self.
These small reminders could make a giant distinction. Months or years from now, they’ll aid you (or somebody you belief) get well with out guessing.
A number of notes right this moment, whereas these particulars are contemporary, can forestall confusion down the road.
Clear writing, good supplies, and secure storage are what make a pockets backup dependable. You don’t want perfection. Simply care, consistency, and some good decisions.
If it’s been some time because you checked your backup, this week is likely to be the proper time.
