How do you craft a stonecutter and what building options does it unlock?

The stonecutter is a crucial crafting station in Valheim that unlocks advanced building options, particularly for stone-based structures. To craft a stonecutter, you must first defeat the first boss, Eikthyr, in the Meadows biome. This boss drops Hard Antlers, which are required to craft an Antler Pickaxe. With the pickaxe, you can mine Tin and Copper in the Black Forest biome, which are essential for crafting Bronze.\n\nOnce you have Bronze, you can craft a Forge, which is necessary to create the stonecutter. The stonecutter itself requires 10 Wood, 2 Iron, and 1 Stone. Iron is obtained by mining Muddy Scrap Piles in the Swamp biome, which are found in Sunken Crypts. You will need a Bronze Pickaxe or better to mine these scrap piles. After smelting the scrap into Iron in a Smelter, you can craft the stonecutter at a Workbench.\n\nPlacing the stonecutter near your base unlocks a variety of stone-based building options. These include stone walls, floors, arches, and pillars, which are significantly more durable than wood structures. Stone structures are resistant to fire and can withstand attacks from enemies, making them ideal for fortifying your base. Additionally, the stonecutter allows you to craft decorative items like stone stairs and hearths, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your builds.\n\nOne common challenge players face is transporting Iron from the Swamp biome to their base. To make this easier, consider building a portal near the Swamp biome to quickly transport materials. Alternatively, you can use a Karve or Longship to transport large quantities of Iron across water. Always ensure you have enough food and weapons when venturing into the Swamp, as it is a dangerous biome filled with hostile creatures like Draugr and Leeches.\n\nAnother tip is to plan your stone structures carefully. Stone is heavy and requires a lot of inventory space, so gather it in bulk before starting large projects. You can mine stone from large boulders in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. Additionally, stone structures require a solid foundation, so ensure your base is built on level ground or use the Hoe to flatten the terrain.\n\nFor experienced players, the stonecutter opens up advanced building techniques, such as creating multi-level stone fortresses or intricate stone pathways. Combining stone with wood or other materials can create visually stunning and highly functional builds. Remember to repair your stone structures regularly using the Hammer, as they can degrade over time from enemy attacks or environmental damage.\n\nIn summary, the stonecutter is a game-changing tool for Valheim players looking to upgrade their bases with durable and aesthetically pleasing stone structures. By following the steps to craft it and utilizing the building options it unlocks, you can create a formidable and visually impressive Viking stronghold.