See the Compact marking process
Video summary and written alternative
The demonstration shows how a supplied example is transferred to the Compact numeric grid. Compact records one-based English BIP39 word numbers (1–2048), with each digit placed in its indicated quadrant. On the physical plate, use permanent marker to lay out and re-check every intended position before punching.
Compact Punchplate guide
One word. One number. Precise marks.
Compact Punchplates use a human-friendly, one-based English BIP39 word number from 1–2048. This is one higher than BIP39’s internal 0–2047 index. Skip leading zeros, then mark the remaining digits clockwise from the top.
Now encoding
Punchplate word number 1521
The first digit is marked in the top quadrant.
The full 0–9 plate stays visible, so you can follow every mark without scrolling the diagram.
Safe practice word
Punchplate word number —
Loading a word from the official BIP-39 list.
Practice only: never enter or share a real recovery word or phrase on any website. This exercise supplies the word for you.
Correct choices preview in green. Other digits preview in red and cannot be marked.
Final check: Numeric encoding prevents spelling transcription, but it cannot prevent a wrong number, digit order, or quadrant. Put the original recovery words out of view and test restore using only the completed Punchplate before relying on it. Never enter recovery words on a website or ordinary connected computer.
Common questions
What is the difference between Standard and Compact?
Standard is a letter-prefix format that avoids numeric lookup: complete three-letter words and the first four letters of longer English BIP39 words. Compact records English BIP39 word-list numbers (1–2048) on a smaller plate and requires the word list during recovery. Both hold the complete phrase.
Is the punch tool included?
Starter Sets include one reusable automatic center punch. Plate-only products do not unless the selected option says otherwise. One tool works for multiple plates.
Do I need a 12-word or 24-word Punchplate?
Match the phrase your wallet created: 12 words to a 12-word plate, or 24 words to a 24-word plate. Confirm compatibility first if the language or recovery standard differs.
Should I choose one complete copy or two?
Two copies reduce the risk of losing the only plate but create another place the full phrase can be exposed. Choose the number you can store and control safely.
Will Punchplate work with my wallet?
Confirm that your wallet created a 12- or 24-word English BIP39 phrase, then match the word count and plate format. Never send us the phrase to check compatibility.
How should I test my Punchplate backup?
Hide the original words and other copies. Then use the wallet’s backup-check process with only the finished Punchplate. For a Distributed 2-of-3 Kit, test pairs 1+2, 1+3, and 2+3.
Never type recovery words into a website or support form, and do not reset your only working wallet just to run a test.
What about a BIP39 passphrase?
A BIP39 passphrase is a separate secret. Record and test it separately; do not put it on the recovery-phrase plate.
What if I punch the wrong spot or a mark is unclear?
Mark every position in permanent marker and re-check the layout before punching. If a punched mark could be misread, follow the product instructions or replace the plate. Then test recovery from the finished plate.