What is the purpose of the tanning rack workbench upgrade?

The tanning rack is a crucial workbench upgrade in Valheim that allows players to process leather scraps into higher-quality materials, specifically leather. This upgrade is essential for crafting better armor, weapons, and tools, making it a key component of mid-game progression. Without the tanning rack, players are limited to basic leather scraps, which are insufficient for crafting advanced gear. The tanning rack is unlocked after defeating the first boss, Eikthyr, and obtaining hard antlers, which are used to craft the antler pickaxe. This pickaxe is necessary to mine tin and copper in the Black Forest biome, which are required to build the forge and further upgrades.\n\nTo build the tanning rack, players need 10 wood, 15 flint, 20 leather scraps, and 5 deer hides. These materials are relatively easy to gather early in the game. Wood is obtained by chopping trees, flint is found near water sources in the Meadows biome, leather scraps drop from boars, and deer hides are acquired by hunting deer. Once the materials are gathered, players can place the tanning rack near their workbench. It must be within the workbench''s radius to function, so ensure it is placed close enough.\n\nThe tanning rack''s primary function is to convert leather scraps into leather. This process is vital because leather is a key ingredient for crafting items like the troll hide armor, which provides better protection than basic rags. Additionally, leather is used to upgrade the workbench itself, unlocking further crafting options. For example, the workbench upgrade to level 3 requires 10 leather, which can only be obtained through the tanning rack. This creates a progression loop where players must continually gather resources to improve their crafting capabilities.\n\nOne common challenge players face is efficiently gathering leather scraps and deer hides. Boars are the primary source of leather scraps, but they can be difficult to hunt without proper tools. Using a bow and arrows is the most effective method, as it allows players to maintain distance and avoid taking damage. Deer hides, on the other hand, require patience and precision. Deer are skittish and will flee if players approach too quickly. Sneaking or using a bow from a distance is the best strategy for hunting deer.\n\nAnother practical tip is to build a boar farm early in the game. By taming boars with mushrooms or carrots, players can create a renewable source of leather scraps. This eliminates the need to constantly hunt boars in the wild and ensures a steady supply of materials for the tanning rack. Additionally, players should explore the Black Forest biome as soon as possible to gather tin and copper. These metals are essential for crafting the forge, which is required to create bronze and other advanced materials.\n\nIn summary, the tanning rack is a vital upgrade for any Valheim player looking to progress beyond the early game. It enables the production of leather, which is necessary for crafting better gear and upgrading the workbench. By efficiently gathering resources, hunting strategically, and building a boar farm, players can maximize the benefits of the tanning rack and ensure a smooth progression through the game. Always remember to place the tanning rack within the workbench''s radius and prioritize upgrading your crafting stations to unlock new possibilities.