[PnP] how virgin is virgin enough?

[Scott Adams]

At 12:36 AM 2/9/09, you wrote:
>OK...so when constructing/creating magic items, how virgin is virgin enough for item materials?  For a sword does the magic user have to collect ore or can he get an iron ingot?  When creating a pouch, do you have to buy new woven/spun material or do you have to raise the sheep for the wool or raise the plants for linen?  Anybody know about the care and feeding of silkworms?
> 
>Just how far back in the existance of the materials do you really have to go?
> 
>I've got an idea for some items I would like to make in one game and want to know what the intent is of the creation rule.
> 

Depends on the item. Think of it like arts and crafts.  Collect the materials and bild what you want.  That's basically it.  As long as its not a "finished" or half finished or even 1/3rd finished item.  Once you start the process (say sewing in that boot the leather threads) it becomes somewhat finished.  So need a staff?  Collect he wood and carve it.  Need a sword collect the ingot or ore and bang it out.  Need a Amulet collect the chain links, amulet face or make one and inlay the jewels.  Etc.

To me consider it step 1 of the Arts/Crafts class.  Collect materials. Once you begin step 2 the item is tainted and only the mage doing it can enchant it.