Creators are the lifeblood of the internet, the source for every platform’s content, experiences, and community. As creators look to what’s next for their careers and growth potential, the Web3 creator economy shines as a beacon of hope for those of us that work tirelessly to create digital content and tell compelling stories. It’s with this perspective that our community at Tellr is aiming to put the resources, knowledge and tooling in the hands of innovative creators ready to tackle web3 and the future of the internet.

With the help of web3, creators are in a position to more easily thrive, but this has a lot of skeptical creators considering, is web3 good for creators? If you’re looking to answer this question, and gain a better understanding of exactly what is the web3 creator economy, this guide will help you take the first simple steps into this exciting space.

Here are five steps to start exploring web3 for creators:

1. Basic Research

The best way to begin learning and exploring any new subject matter is research. Start reading, listening to podcasts, and watching videos to better understand the core concepts of Web3, decentralized technologies, and the Web3 creator economy. There are so many awesome sites packed with information, helping launch you down a rabbit hole of web3 innovation. As you explore, take note of cautionary crypto tales, interesting blockchain use cases, and emerging web3 communities that interest you.

Here are some websites that will help you grasp why Web3 is the future and how it empowers creators…

Third Academy – a Web3 educational collective and career launchpad. Want to break into Web3? Our courses are designed to onboard the next generation of professionals
Learn Web3 – a free platform to take you from zero to hero in Web3. Join 110k+ developers in our mission to make learning permissionless and collaborative.
Crypto Twitter – The direct source for news, culture, and real time engagement in the Web3 space. Prepare to sift through the degeneracy and inspiration that exists here.
Alchemy Lists –Whether you’re a beginner developer, startup, web3 market leader, or a large enterprise, Alchemy makes multichain web3 development easy.
Coin Bureau – Our blockchain guides will help you find your way through exchanges, tools, and other crypto apps.
Bankless Podcast – The Ultimate Guide to Crypto Finance. DeFi, NFTs, and cryptocurrencies. Level up. Go bankless.

Safety Warnings

When engaging in the Web3 ecosystem, it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines to protect your assets and personal information. Here are some key safety warnings:

Double-Check Wallet Address and Network

• Ensure Correct Wallet Address: Always double-check the wallet address before sending any cryptocurrency. A small mistake can result in a loss of funds, as transactions on the blockchain are irreversible.
• Verify Network: Confirm that you are using the correct blockchain network (e.g., Ethereum Mainnet for MetaMask or Solana for Phantom) when making transactions. Sending assets on the wrong network can lead to permanent loss of funds.

Connect Only to Safe dApps

• Research dApps: Before connecting your wallet to any decentralized application (dApp), research its reputation and ensure it is widely recognized and trusted.
• Official Websites: Only connect to dApps through their official websites to avoid phishing sites that mimic legitimate platforms.
• Review Permissions: Carefully review the permissions requested by any dApp. Be cautious of granting excessive permissions that could compromise your assets.

Be Cautious with Transactions

• Approve Transactions Carefully: Always review the details of any transaction before approving it. Ensure the amounts and recipient addresses are correct.
• Gas Fees: Check the gas fees (transaction fees) before confirming a transaction. High fees can significantly reduce your net gains.
• Phishing Attempts: Be aware of phishing attempts through emails, messages, or websites that ask for your private keys or seed phrases. Never share these details with anyone.

Keep Your Private Keys Secure

• Backup Seed Phrases: Write down your wallet’s seed phrase on paper and store it in a secure place. Avoid storing it digitally to reduce the risk of hacking.
• Private Keys: Keep your private keys confidential and never share them. Losing access to your private keys means losing access to your assets.

Regular Security Checks

• Update Software: Ensure your wallet and any related software are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
• Use Strong Passwords: Set strong, unique passwords for your wallets and accounts. Consider using a password manager to securely store them.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable two-factor authentication on your exchange accounts for an added layer of security.

Avoid Common Scams

• Fake Airdrops: Be cautious of offers for free tokens (airdrops) that require you to send funds first. Legitimate airdrops do not require upfront payments.
• Impersonation Scams: Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a representative of a dApp or project. Scammers often impersonate trusted figures to steal funds.

2. Create a Wallet

Once you’ve learned a bit about the space and the tech that makes it possible, it’s time to set up a wallet, and prepare your personal gateway to Web3. 

What is a Web3 Wallet?

A Web3 wallet is a digital tool that allows you to manage your cryptocurrencies and interact with decentralized applications (dApps). Unlike traditional wallets, which hold physical currency, Web3 wallets store digital assets like Ethereum, NFTs, and other tokens.

Why is a Web3 Wallet Critical?

In web3, you as the user have complete control over your digital assets, including everything from crypto currency, to NFTs, and even your data. This is enabled via a Web3 wallet such as MetaMask, Trust Wallet or any of the many wallet solutions available.

Ownership and Control: A Web3 wallet gives you complete control over your digital assets. You own the private keys, meaning you have full ownership and control, unlike centralized exchanges such as Coinbase or Binance, where the platform holds your assets.

Security: Web3 wallets offer high security through encryption and private key management. This ensures your assets are safe from hacks and unauthorized access, provided you keep your private keys secure.

Access to Decentralized Applications (dApps): Web3 wallets are your gateway to the world of dApps. These decentralized platforms offer a range of services from finance (DeFi) to gaming, providing opportunities to earn, invest, and engage in the Web3 ecosystem.

Ease of Transactions: With a Web3 wallet, you can easily send and receive cryptocurrencies. This makes it seamless to conduct transactions, whether you’re buying digital art, paying for services, or tipping other creators.

Interoperability: Many Web3 wallets support multiple blockchains, allowing you to manage a diverse portfolio of assets. This flexibility is essential as the Web3 space continues to grow and evolve.

What Can You Do with a Web3 Wallet?

Store and Manage Assets: Securely store your cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Keep track of your holdings and manage them efficiently.

Participate in DeFi: Engage in decentralized finance by lending, borrowing, or earning interest on your crypto assets through platforms like Aave or Compound.

Mint and Trade NFTs: Create, buy, and sell NFTs on marketplaces such as OpenSea and Rarible. This is a great way to monetize your digital creations.

Play Web3 Games: Use your wallet to access and play blockchain-based games. Earn in-game assets and trade them in secondary markets.

Interact with dApps: Use your wallet to connect to various dApps. Whether it’s joining a decentralized social network, participating in governance for a DAO, or using decentralized exchanges (DEXs), your wallet is the key.

Creating a wallet is simple and opens doors to various Web3 creator tools.

How to Set Up a MetaMask Wallet

MetaMask is a popular Web3 wallet used to manage Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to set it up:

Step 1: Install MetaMask

1. Visit the MetaMask Website: Go to metamask.io.
2. Download the Extension: Click on the “Download” button and select the browser you’re using (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Brave).
3. Add to Browser: Follow the prompts to add the MetaMask extension to your browser.

Step 2: Create a New Wallet

1. Open MetaMask: Click on the MetaMask icon in your browser toolbar.
2. Get Started: Click “Get Started” on the MetaMask welcome page.
3. Create a Wallet: Click on “Create a Wallet.”
4. Agree to Terms: Read and agree to the terms of use.
5. Create a Password: Set a strong password and click “Create.”

Step 3: Secure Your Wallet

1. Secure Backup Phrase: MetaMask will generate a 12-word backup phrase. Write it down and store it in a safe place. Do not share it with anyone.
2. Confirm Backup Phrase: Verify your backup phrase by selecting the words in the correct order.

Step 4: Access Your Wallet

1. Access Your Wallet: After confirming your backup phrase, you’ll be taken to your MetaMask wallet dashboard.
2. Fund Your Wallet: To start using your wallet, send some Ethereum (ETH) to your MetaMask wallet address.

How to Set Up a Phantom Wallet

Phantom is a user-friendly wallet for managing Solana and SPL tokens. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to set it up:

Step 1: Install Phantom

1. Visit the Phantom Website: Go to phantom.app.
2. Download the Extension: Click on the “Add to Chrome” button. Note: Phantom is currently available for Chrome, Brave, Firefox, and Edge.
3. Add to Browser: Follow the prompts to add the Phantom extension to your browser.

Step 2: Create a New Wallet

1. Open Phantom: Click on the Phantom icon in your browser toolbar.
2. Create a New Wallet: Click on “Create New Wallet.”
3. Create a Password: Set a strong password and click “Continue.”

Step 3: Secure Your Wallet

1. Backup Recovery Phrase: Phantom will generate a 12-word recovery phrase. Write it down and store it in a safe place. Do not share it with anyone.
2. Confirm Recovery Phrase: Verify your recovery phrase by entering the words in the correct order.

Step 4: Access Your Wallet

1. Access Your Wallet: After confirming your recovery phrase, you’ll be taken to your Phantom wallet dashboard.
2. Fund Your Wallet: To start using your wallet, send some Solana (SOL) to your Phantom wallet address.

3. Buy Some Crypto

Purchase some cryptocurrency to get started. Platforms like Coinbase or Binance make it easy to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other altcoins. This step is crucial for engaging in Web3 activities, from transactions to participating in decentralized applications (dApps). Once you obtain some crypto on a centralized exchange, you can transfer it to your web3 wallet and start trading on decentralized exchanges.

Step 1: Buy Crypto on a Centralized Exchange (CEX)

To get started with Web3, you’ll need to buy some cryptocurrency. Here’s how to do it using a centralized exchange (CEX) like Coinbase or Binance.

Using Coinbase

1. Create an Account:
   • Visit Coinbase and click on “Get Started.”
   • Enter your email, create a strong password, and complete the verification process.
2. Verify Your Identity:
   • Follow the prompts to verify your identity by providing necessary documents (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
3. Add a Payment Method:
   • Go to “Payment Methods” in your account settings.
   • Add a payment method like a bank account, debit card, or credit card.
4. Buy Cryptocurrency:
   • Navigate to the “Buy/Sell” section.
   • Select the cryptocurrency you want to buy (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
   • Enter the amount you wish to purchase and confirm the transaction.

Using Binance

1. Create an Account:
   • Visit Binance and click on “Register.”
   • Enter your email, create a strong password, and complete the verification process.
2. Verify Your Identity:
   • Follow the prompts to verify your identity by providing necessary documents (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
3. Add a Payment Method:
   • Go to “Buy Crypto” and select your preferred payment method (e.g., bank transfer, credit card).
4. Buy Cryptocurrency:
   • Select the cryptocurrency you want to buy (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
   • Enter the amount you wish to purchase and confirm the transaction.

Step 2: Transfer Crypto to Your Wallet

Once you’ve purchased your cryptocurrency, you’ll need to transfer it to your Web3 wallet (MetaMask or Phantom).

1. Log into Your Wallet:
   • Open MetaMask or Phantom and log in.
2. Copy Your Wallet Address:
   • In MetaMask, click on your account name to copy the address.
   • In Phantom, click on the wallet address at the top to copy it.
3. Transfer from Coinbase/Binance:
   • Go to your Coinbase or Binance account.
   • Navigate to the “Send/Receive” section (Coinbase) or “Withdraw” (Binance).
   • Paste your wallet address and enter the amount you want to transfer.
   • Confirm the transaction and wait for it to be processed.

Step 3: Use a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) like Uniswap

Now that your crypto is in your wallet, you can use a decentralized exchange (DEX) to trade for other tokens. Here’s how to use Uniswap.

1. Connect Your Wallet to Uniswap:
   • Visit Uniswap.
   • Click “Connect Wallet” and choose your wallet (MetaMask or Phantom).
   • Follow the prompts to connect your wallet.
2. Select Tokens to Trade:
   • In the “Swap” section, select the token you want to swap (e.g., Ethereum) in the “From” field.
   • Select the token you want to receive in the “To” field (e.g., a specific altcoin).
3. Enter Amount:
   • Enter the amount of the token you want to swap.
   • Uniswap will automatically calculate the amount you will receive.
4. Review and Confirm:
   • Review the details of your swap, including the exchange rate and any fees.
   • Click “Swap” and then “Confirm Swap.”
5. Confirm in Your Wallet:
   • Your wallet will prompt you to confirm the transaction.
   • Review the gas fees and confirm the transaction.
6. Wait for Confirmation:
   • Wait for the transaction to be confirmed on the blockchain. This may take a few minutes.
7. Check Your Wallet:
   • Once the transaction is complete, check your wallet to ensure you have received the new tokens.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully bought crypto on a CEX, transferred it to your wallet, and traded it on a DEX. You are now ready to explore the vast possibilities of the Web3 ecosystem!

4. Create an NFT

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are a cornerstone of the Web3 Creator Economy. Platforms like OpenSea and Rarible allow you to mint and sell your own NFTs. This is a powerful way to monetize your creativity and reach a global audience.

How to Purchase an NFT from a Creator

Purchasing an NFT is a great way to support creators and own unique digital assets. Here’s how to do it on OpenSea, Rarible, and Foundation.

Using OpenSea

1. Create a Wallet: Set up a MetaMask wallet (as described earlier).
2. Fund Your Wallet: Transfer Ethereum (ETH) to your MetaMask wallet.
3. Connect Wallet to OpenSea:
   • Visit OpenSea and click “Connect Wallet.”
   • Select MetaMask and follow the prompts to connect.
4. Browse and Select NFT:
   • Use the search bar or browse categories to find an NFT.
   • Click on the NFT to view details.
5. Purchase the NFT:
   • Click “Buy Now” or place a bid.
   • Review the transaction details and click “Confirm.”
   • Approve the transaction in MetaMask.

How to Create Your Own NFT

Creating your own NFT allows you to monetize your creativity and reach a global audience. Here’s how to mint an NFT on OpenSea, Rarible, and Foundation.

Using OpenSea (Lazy Minting)

1. Create a Wallet: Set up a MetaMask wallet.
2. Fund Your Wallet: Transfer Ethereum (ETH) to your MetaMask wallet (you’ll need ETH for a one-time fee).
3. Connect Wallet to OpenSea:
   • Visit OpenSea and click “Connect Wallet.”
   • Select MetaMask and connect your wallet.
4. Create Your NFT:
   • Click “Create” and upload your digital file (image, video, audio, etc.).
   • Fill in the details: name, description, and properties.
5. Mint Your NFT:
   • Click “Create” to mint your NFT using OpenSea’s lazy minting feature.
   • Pay the one-time gas fee the first time you mint an NFT.

Using Rarible

1. Create a Wallet: Set up a MetaMask wallet.
2. Fund Your Wallet: Transfer Ethereum (ETH) to your MetaMask wallet.
3. Connect Wallet to Rarible:
   • Visit Rarible and click “Sign In.”
   • Select MetaMask and connect your wallet.
4. Create Your NFT:
   • Click “Create” and choose between “Single” or “Multiple” (for editions).
   • Upload your digital file and fill in the details.
5. Mint Your NFT:
   • Click “Create Item” and approve the transaction in MetaMask.
   • Pay the associated gas fees to mint your NFT.

5. Play a Web3 Game

Dive into Web3 gaming to experience the future of interactive entertainment. Games like Axie Infinity and Decentraland not only offer fun but also opportunities to earn crypto. This firsthand experience will show you why Web3 is good for creators and how it integrates gaming with blockchain technology.

Choose a Free-to-Play Web3 Game

Here are some top free-to-play Web3 games that you can start playing without any initial investment:

Splinterlands

1. Overview: Splinterlands is a digital collectible card game where players battle monsters to earn rewards. It uses blockchain technology to provide true ownership of in-game assets.
2. How to Play:
   • Visit Splinterlands and create an account.
   • Start Playing: Begin with a free starter deck. Participate in battles to earn rewards and new cards. You can later purchase additional cards or packs if desired​ (Cryptonews)​​ (BitPinas)​.

Gods Unchained

1. Overview: Gods Unchained is a tactical card game where players collect cards and compete in battles. The game is free-to-play, and players can earn cards through gameplay.
2. How to Play:
   • Visit Gods Unchained and create an account.
   • Get a Free Starter Pack: Receive a free set of cards to start playing.
   • Play and Earn: Compete in battles to earn Flux, which can be used to create new cards​ (Cryptonews)​​ (BitPinas)​.

Chainmonsters

1. Overview: Chainmonsters is an MMORPG where players catch, battle, and trade creatures called Chainmons. The game is built on the Flow blockchain.
2. How to Play:
   • Visit Chainmonsters and sign up for a free account.
   • Download the Game: Available on PC and mobile platforms.
   • Start Playing: Explore the world, capture Chainmons, and engage in battles without any initial costs​ (BitPinas)​​ (Gamelevate.com)​.

Alien Worlds

1. Overview: Alien Worlds is a decentralized metaverse connected by the WAX, Binance Smart Chain, and Ethereum blockchains. Players can mine resources, buy land, and earn Trilium (TLM).
2. How to Play:
   • Visit Alien Worlds and create an account.
   • Start Mining: Use the free tools provided to start mining Trilium.
   • Expand Your Activities: Participate in missions, buy land, and join Planet DAOs as you progress​ (Cryptonews)​​ (Tatum)​.

By following these steps, you’ll begin to see the vast potential of Web3 for Creators. Embrace the future of digital creation and explore the limitless possibilities that Web3 offers.

Ready to start your Web3 journey? Join us on Discord and let’s build the Web3 creator economy together.