What are the best ways to farm copper and tin for building materials?

Farming copper and tin in Valheim is essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and building materials, especially when constructing megabases. Both resources are found in the Black Forest biome, but they require different strategies to gather efficiently. Copper is mined from large copper deposits, while tin is collected from smaller tin ore nodes near water sources. Understanding the mechanics of mining and refining these materials is key to maximizing your resource yield.\n\nTo farm copper, you’ll need an Antler Pickaxe or better, which is crafted using Hard Antlers from the first boss, Eikthyr. Copper deposits are large, rocky formations with a greenish tint, often partially buried underground. To fully mine a deposit, you’ll need to dig around and beneath it, as the visible portion is only a fraction of the total ore. This can be time-consuming, so bring a Hoe to level the ground and make mining easier. A Cart is also highly recommended for transporting large amounts of ore back to your base.\n\nTin, on the other hand, is found in smaller, shiny nodes along the edges of rivers, lakes, and coastlines in the Black Forest. These nodes are easier to spot due to their reflective appearance. Like copper, tin requires a pickaxe to mine, but it yields fewer resources per node. However, tin nodes are more abundant and quicker to mine, making them a good supplement to your copper farming efforts. Always carry a pickaxe and a weapon, as the Black Forest is home to hostile creatures like Greydwarfs and Trolls.\n\nOne common challenge is the weight limit of ores, which can slow you down significantly. To mitigate this, consider setting up a temporary base or outpost near your mining site. This allows you to smelt ores on-site using a Charcoal Kiln and Smelter, reducing the need to transport heavy materials. Alternatively, you can use Portals to quickly return to your main base, but note that ores and ingots cannot be transported through portals.\n\nFor efficient farming, prioritize areas with dense copper deposits and nearby tin nodes. Use the map to mark resource locations, and clear the area of enemies before starting your mining operation. If you’re playing with friends, divide tasks—one person can mine while another gathers wood for charcoal or defends against enemies. This teamwork can significantly speed up the process.\n\nFinally, always prepare for the dangers of the Black Forest. Bring healing items like Cooked Meat or Berries, and equip armor and weapons appropriate for your progression level. Trolls, in particular, can be deadly if you’re caught off guard. By following these steps and staying organized, you’ll have a steady supply of copper and tin for all your building and crafting needs.\n\nPractical tips: Use the Hoe to create paths for your Cart, mark resource locations on your map, and always carry a backup pickaxe in case yours breaks. For long-term efficiency, consider building a Smelter and Forge near your mining site to process ores immediately.