How to Stamp Your ColdQR Titanium Backup (Step-by-Step Guide)

This guide walk you through stamping you ColdQR Titanum Backup so your SeedQR is readable for decades while our keys stay offline and secure.

Take your time, double check each step, and always test-scan your plate before you destroy any aper backups. 

Disclaimer: This is general guidance. You are fully responsible for your own key security, backups, and test restores. 

What’s in the kit

  • ColdQR Titanium plate
    • 21×21 grid – compact 12-word SeedQR
    • 25×25 grid – standard QR / 24-word compact QR
  • Center punch (for clean, repeatable dimples)
  • Long-nib black marker (for layout and contrast)

 Tools & setup

Before you start: tools & workspace

You’ll need:

  • A printed SeedQR / reference from your wallet or SeedSigner
  • Solid, stable surface (anvil, vise, heavy steel, or thick concrete)
  • Safety glasses and hearing protection (recommended)
  • Good overhead lighting
  • Optional: masking tape to keep the plate from sliding

Tips:

  • Do not rush. Plan 20–30 minutes where you won’t be interrupted.
  • If this is your first time, practice the punching motion a few times on scrap metal or the plate corners (outside the grid).

How the grid works

Understanding the ColdQR grid

  • Each tiny “cup” in the grid corresponds to a module (square) of the QR code.
  • A punched dimple = dark square in the QR.
  • An unpunc hed spot = light square.
  • The outer alignment squares in the corners are part of the QR pattern—don’t skip them.

Think of it as “coloring in” the black squares of a QR code using punch marks instead of ink.

Step-by-step stamping

Step-by-step: stamping your SeedQR

Step 1 – Generate and verify your SeedQR

  1. Use your preferred signing device/wallet (SeedSigner, Krux, Jade, Passport, Coldcard Q, etc.) to generate a SeedQR from your seed.
  2. Confirm that it restores correctly on your device before you touch the titanium plate.

Step 2 – Align your reference

  1. Place the printed QR or on-screen QR next to the plate so you can clearly see rows and columns.
  2. Make sure you know which side of the plate is “top” – match any markings (A/B, 1/2, etc.) to the reference.

Step 3 – Mark the pattern with the long-nib marker

  1. Working row by row, use the marker to dot every grid cell that should be “black” in the QR.
  2. Keep your dots centered in each cup.
  3. When you’re done, you should see a dotted QR code on the plate.

Checkpoint: Compare your dotted plate to the printed QR in both directions (left-to-right and top-to-bottom). If anything looks shifted by one cell, fix it now.

Step 4 – Punch the dots

  1. Place the plate on your solid surface.
  2. Set the tip of the center punch on one of the dotted cups.
  3. Hold the punch straight up and down and apply a firm, quick press/strike (depending on punch style).
  4. You’re aiming for consistent depth—not super deep, just clearly defined.
  5. Work in a pattern (e.g., row by row) so you don’t lose your place.

If you’re unsure about depth, punch a couple of dots, wipe, and test-scan (see next step). Adjust as needed.

Step 5 – Clean and test-scan

  1. Wipe away any excess ink or metal dust.
  2. Darken the dimples lightly with the marker if needed, then wipe the surface so only the dimples stay dark.
  3. Use your wallet / SeedSigner camera to scan the plate under good lighting.
  4. Confirm:
    • The QR scans instantly and reliably
    • The seed phrase / fingerprint matches your original

If scanning is unreliable:

  • Add a touch more contrast (re-ink dimples and wipe again).
  • Check for missed cells—compare the plate to your printed QR and add any missing punches.

Step 6 – Finalize your backup

Once you are 100% happy with the scan:

  1. Destroy/secure any paper or digital copies of the seed/QR you no longer need.
  2. Store the plate in its 3D-printed, tamper-evident container.
  3. Add a zip-tie or numbered seal if you want tamper evidence.
  4. Store it in a secure, fire-resistant, and discreet location.

Choosing between 21×21 and 25×25

Which plate size should I use?

  • 21×21 plate
    • Best for compact 12-word SeedQRs
    • Minimal footprint, easy to hide
  • 25×25 plate
    • Fits a 12-word standard QR or a 24-word compact QR
    • More flexible if you plan to migrate wallets or change formats later

When in doubt, choose the 25×25—it gives you more headroom for future wallet formats that support SeedQR.

Safety & best practices

  • Never stamp or scan your seed where cameras or people are watching.
  • Don’t post photos or videos of your plate (even partially).
  • Periodically re-test the plate by restoring from SeedQR on a spare / test device.
  • Consider using passphrases and multi-sig if you’re storing significant value.

Need a plate or tools?

ColdQR Titanium SeedQR Backup  (Grade 7 Titanium)

Ready to build your own titanium backup?

• ColdQR Titanium Backup – 21×21 Compact Plate

• ColdQR Titanium Backup – 25×25 Plate

Every plate from CryptoMachine Shop includes a long-nib marker and center punch so you can stamp accurately from day one.

Join Waitlist We will inform you when the product arrives in stock. Please leave your valid email address below.