Bitcoin Forum

Hi, I have seen this topic from not so long ago (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=336858.0) but it didn't get many replies.

From your experience, is it safe to print paper wallet with inject printers?
Do you think it could possibly fade over time? Is it worth laminate?
How do you store them? In a plastic bag?
What's your experience?

Thanks  :)

Depends strongly on the paper and the ink. Research both. Archival paper and Epson pigment inks last 20, 30+ years. Also, if you are worried about that length of storage, you need an m-of-n or something, not just a single or even multiple copy single key paper wallet.

Just write / print out the keys down if you're paranoid about losing them due to fading. They will fade over time.

Thanks. I have an Epson, I will check Archival paper and see if I can find it easily.
Anyway I think I am fine if they last over 5 years
I was already thinking at m-of-n (2 of 3 actually) and send a copy to different locations
Thanks

I don't understand, what do you mean? I know they will fade, that's why I am asking
You mean write with a pen on paper is safer than print?

Either write them down in pen or just print the public & private keys out if you're worried about QR codes becoming unreadable.

This paper I've found is excellent.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006L38R/

It's acid-free and super bright. Although, I'd try to find a material that's also waterproof. Laminating would probably be fine.

Heck, even a zip lock bag.

Are you immortal or something? Because i can't think of any other case where you should worry about ink fading out  :P :P

This wouldn't be a bad idea either.

http://www.amazon.com/Dry-Packs-Cotton-Silica-Packet-Pack/dp/B0038N30OY/

It may not be needed, but it keeps moisture out of the container the paper wallets are stored in. I bought these a couple of years ago before I stopped collecting silver coins. I would definitely use these myself. Can't hurt.

Inkjet ink can fade dramatically over time, especially if you use cheap ink and paper on a crappy printer. I've got some pictures printed out a couple of years ago that don't look too good now, so I could see how a QR code could become unreadable.

It's definitely not worth the risk losing your Bitcoins; that's why I'd write or print just the codes out as well.

More or less. Laser is better, but if you only have secure easy access to inkjet, here are some tips:

• Use Teslin 10mil synthetic paper. It turns your inkjets waterproof, and the paper itself is waterproof, tearproof.
• Store wallets in zip-sealing bags
• Store in fireproof safe. Do not store in waterproof safe as complete lack of airflow can invite mold/mildew problems.

You can also make a "metal wallet" if you're worried about the longevity/durability of ink on paper.  Purchase a piece of aluminum and a set of alpha-numeric punches such as these:

http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/page.aspx?p=32187&cat=1,43456,43461&ap=1  

Pick out the hex chars (0 to 9 + A to F) and place them in a box.  Shake this box, and then select a punch at random.  This is your first hex character, so grab your hammer and stamp it into the aluminum.  Repeat this 64 times in total.  This becomes your 256-bit private key.  

Something like bitaddress.org will convert this private key from hex format to the standard wallet import format (WIF) and tell you the corresponding bitcoin address.  Just make sure you enter the right hex number, as, unlike the WIF or a bitcoin address, there is no checksum on the hex format.  I suggest you generate the WIF private key and bitcoin address 3 times, each time reading off your metal wallet again from start to finish.  If all three times give you the same bitcoin address, you can be sure you'll be able to recover your funds in the future.  

EDIT: If what I said above doesn't make sense to you, please do not attempt it.  This could be highly error prone if you are not yet experienced with bitcoin.  

Ahah no I am not immortal but I don't feel good using a £10 Epson refurbished printer I managed to buy at Christmas Sale, with full cartdrige! :P

Thanks everybody for your feedback, I will have a look at the paper on amazon and I will buy some ziplock bags
Peter R your solution is very interesting (why I didn't know about this?) but probably I will stick to paper for now

lol. True. I think the OP is overthinking,  or .... immortal :)