How do you unlock the stonecutter and what does it allow you to build?

The stonecutter is a crucial tool in Valheim that unlocks advanced building options, allowing players to construct stone structures and decorative pieces. To unlock the stonecutter, you must first defeat the first boss, Eikthyr, in the Meadows biome. Eikthyr drops Hard Antlers, which are essential for crafting the Antler Pickaxe. This pickaxe is required to mine Tin and Copper in the Black Forest biome, the next step in progression.\n\nOnce you have gathered Copper and Tin, smelt them in a Smelter to create Bronze. Bronze is used to craft the Forge, a workstation that enables you to craft higher-tier tools and items. After building the Forge, you can craft the stonecutter using 10 Wood and 2 Iron. Iron is obtained by mining Muddy Scrap Piles in the Swamp biome, which requires a Bronze Pickaxe or better. Once you have the stonecutter, place it near your base to begin crafting stone-based structures.\n\nThe stonecutter allows you to build a variety of stone structures, including stone walls, floors, and arches. These structures are significantly more durable than wood, making them ideal for defending against raids or building in dangerous biomes like the Plains. Additionally, the stonecutter unlocks decorative items like stone pillars and hearths, which can enhance the aesthetic of your base. Stone structures also provide better insulation, keeping your base warmer in cold biomes like the Mountains.\n\nOne common challenge players face is gathering enough Iron to craft the stonecutter. To efficiently farm Iron, explore Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome. These crypts contain Muddy Scrap Piles, which yield Iron when processed in a Smelter. Be prepared for combat, as Swamps are filled with dangerous enemies like Draugr and Blobs. Bring Poison Resistance Mead to mitigate damage from Blobs and the toxic environment.\n\nAnother tip is to prioritize building a stone wall around your base once you unlock the stonecutter. Stone walls are resistant to most enemy attacks, including those from Trolls and Fulings. This makes them invaluable for protecting your base during raids. Additionally, stone structures can be combined with wood for a more visually appealing design, blending functionality with aesthetics.\n\nFor new players, focus on progressing through the biomes in order: Meadows, Black Forest, Swamp, and beyond. Each biome introduces new resources and challenges, and the stonecutter is a key milestone in this progression. Experienced players can use the stonecutter to create elaborate fortresses or decorative builds, showcasing their creativity and mastery of the game.\n\nIn summary, the stonecutter is unlocked by defeating Eikthyr, mining Copper and Tin, crafting Bronze, and gathering Iron. It enables the construction of durable stone structures and decorative items, making it a vital tool for base building and defense. By following these steps and tips, you can efficiently unlock and utilize the stonecutter to enhance your Valheim experience.