Unveiling Minecraft’s Smithing Templates: A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
There are a total of 17 Smithing Templates in Minecraft. Sixteen of these templates are used to apply cosmetic armor trims, while one is specifically required to upgrade diamond armor to netherite.
Decoding Minecraft’s Smithing Templates
Smithing Templates are a key component of the Smithing Table, introduced in Minecraft 1.20. These templates add layers of customization and progression to the game, offering players a deeper level of personalization and goal-oriented exploration. In essence, a Smithing Template is a utility item used to customize and upgrade other items. They visually resemble ancient tablets, often bearing symbols that hint at their origin or purpose.
Types of Smithing Templates
There are two primary types of Smithing Templates:
-
Armor Trim Templates: These templates allow players to add purely cosmetic armor trims to their armor pieces. The trims change the visual appearance of the armor, adding details and patterns based on the template used and the material chosen for the trim.
-
Upgrade Template (Netherite Upgrade): This single, crucial template is essential for upgrading diamond armor and tools to the powerful netherite tier. Without this template, netherite upgrades are impossible.
The Hunt for Smithing Templates: Location, Location, Location!
Finding Smithing Templates is a core part of the Minecraft experience. These items aren’t crafted; they must be discovered within various structures scattered throughout the game world. Each template type has a specific location where it is most likely to be found, encouraging exploration and adventure. Here are some common locations:
- Pillager Outpost: Sentry Armor Trim
- Desert Pyramid: Dune Armor Trim
- Shipwreck: Coast Armor Trim
- Jungle Temple: Wild Armor Trim
- Ocean Monument: Tide Armor Trim
- Ancient City: Ward Armor Trim & Silence Armor Trim (extremely rare)
- Woodland Mansion: Vex Armor Trim
- Nether Fortress: Rib Armor Trim
- Bastion Remnant: Snout Armor Trim & Netherite Upgrade Template (guaranteed in treasure room)
- Stronghold: Eye Armor Trim
- End City: Spire Armor Trim
Armor Trims: A Touch of Style
The 16 armor trim templates offer a diverse range of visual customizations. Each template has a unique pattern, and the color of the trim is determined by the material used during the smithing process (e.g., iron, copper, gold, diamond, netherite). These trims are purely aesthetic and do not affect the armor’s defensive capabilities, allowing players to express their personal style without sacrificing functionality.
Netherite Upgrade Template: The Path to Power
The Netherite Upgrade Smithing Template is arguably the most important of them all. It serves as the gateway to unlocking the power of netherite, the strongest material in the game. This template is found exclusively within bastion remnants in the Nether, specifically within the treasure room chests.
Duplicating Smithing Templates: Infinite Possibilities
While finding Smithing Templates can be challenging, they aren’t a one-time use item. Players can duplicate any Smithing Template using a Smithing Table and the following materials:
- The Smithing Template you wish to duplicate.
- 7 Diamonds
- 1 Block of material that corresponds to the Template being copied:
- Netherrack for Netherite Template
This duplication mechanic allows players to freely customize their armor and tools without constantly searching for new templates.
The Rarest Template: Silence is Golden (and Black)
The Silence Armor Trim is widely considered the rarest Smithing Template in Minecraft. It is found only in ancient cities, and even then, it has an extremely low chance of appearing in chests. The Silence Trim features a unique and intricate design, making it a highly sought-after cosmetic item.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Smithing Templates
1. Are Smithing Templates Consumable?
No, Smithing Templates are not consumed during use. They act as a blueprint or guide within the Smithing Table.
2. Can Armor Trims Be Removed?
Yes! Armor Trims can be removed from any piece of armor using the Armor Scraper. This item is crafted in a crafting table. To use it, equip the armor to remove the trim from, then right click with the Armor Scraper in your hand.
3. Do Armor Trims Affect Armor Stats?
No, armor trims are purely cosmetic. They do not impact the armor’s protection value, durability, or any other stat. The trim is simply a visual customization.
4. Can I Apply Multiple Trims to a Single Piece of Armor?
No, each armor piece can only have one trim applied at a time. If you apply a new trim, it will overwrite the previous one.
5. Are Smithing Templates Required for Making Netherite Armor?
No, Smithing Templates are required to upgrade Diamond armor to Netherite. You still need Netherite Ingots to perform the actual upgrade.
6. Where Can I Find the Netherite Upgrade Smithing Template?
The Netherite Upgrade Smithing Template is found exclusively in bastion remnants within the Nether, guaranteed in the treasure room chests.
7. What Materials Can Be Used for Armor Trims?
You can use a variety of materials for armor trims, including: Iron, Copper, Gold, Lapis Lazuli, Emerald, Diamond, Netherite, Redstone, Amethyst, Quartz. The material you choose will determine the color of the trim.
8. Are All Smithing Templates Equally Rare?
No, the rarity of Smithing Templates varies. Some, like the Coast Trim (found in shipwrecks), are relatively common. Others, such as the Silence Trim (found in ancient cities), are extremely rare.
9. Can I Trade Smithing Templates with Villagers?
No, Smithing Templates cannot be traded with villagers. They must be found within structures.
10. Does Looting Enchantment Affect the Chance of Finding Smithing Templates?
The Looting enchantment does not increase the chance of finding Smithing Templates in chests. It only affects the quantity of items dropped by mobs.
11. Can I Find Smithing Templates in Creative Mode?
Yes, Smithing Templates can be found in chests within structures in Creative Mode, just like in Survival Mode. You can also use commands to give yourself the templates.
12. What is the Best Way to Find Ancient Cities for the Silence Armor Trim?
The best strategy is to explore deep underground, focusing on areas below Y-level -40. Listen for the ambient sounds of the ancient city and be prepared for the Warden. Bring methods of sneaking and moving quickly and quietly.
13. How Do I Duplicate a Smithing Template?
To duplicate a Smithing Template, place it in the Smithing Table along with 7 Diamonds and the correct block for the template you are duplicating:
- Netherrack = Netherite Upgrade Smithing Template
- Cobblestone = Coast Armor Trim
- Smooth Sandstone = Dune Armor Trim
- Brick = Eye Armor Trim
- Mangrove Log = Wild Armor Trim
- Iron Block = Sentry Armor Trim
- Nether Bricks = Rib Armor Trim
- Quartz Block = Spire Armor Trim
- Tuff = Ward Armor Trim
- Deepslate Tiles = Silence Armor Trim
- Prismarine Shards = Tide Armor Trim
- Cobbled Deepslate = Vex Armor Trim
- Blackstone = Snout Armor Trim
14. Do Armor Trims Transfer to Netherite?
Yes, armor trims applied to diamond armor will transfer when you upgrade the armor to netherite using the Netherite Upgrade Smithing Template.
15. Are Smithing Templates Useful for Educational Purposes?
Absolutely! Smithing Templates and their associated mechanics contribute to several educational facets within Minecraft. They encourage exploration and spatial reasoning through the search for structures. Resource management and planning become essential for duplication. Furthermore, the cosmetic customization offered by armor trims fosters creativity and self-expression. Initiatives like the Games Learning Society champion the integration of games into education, recognizing the potential of Minecraft and other games to promote valuable learning experiences. Learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.