Get Started with Modular D&D Terrain - 5 Things to Build First!

Modular D&D terrain is insanely useful, and is one of the first ways a lot of people get started in crafting. My own magnetic modular D&D tiles and terrain are the result of a lot of experimentation to get a playable result, while making sure I don't sacrifice that realistic look.
I've had a lot of people both thanking me for inspiring them to get started with this style of Modular D&D terrain, and also asking questions about where to find the most up to date versions of each tutorial…because I like to keep making improvements 😄
I might have already built a lot, but plenty of people are just starting with their first dungeon tiles! I might as well keep improving things for their sake :)
The goal of this video is to give a clear guide to what I think is best to make first (even cutting some larger projects down to a manageable size for a beginner), while making it clear what to do and where to go to get the best result. I hope this is helpful!
⚔️ SUPPORT BY JOINING THE ARCHIVE ON PATREON: / rparchive
🛠️ SUPPORT BY BUYING EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS: bit.ly/RPEquipment
Everything I use should be linked on the equipment list above, so it's also a library of where to find stuff…
THE FREE MAGNET PLACEMENT JIG STLS: / 55052709
The 10mm UK ones made by Sam: www.thingiverse.com/thing:492...
🔔 Subscribe and click the bell for more D&D terrain!
👍 If you found this helpful, help me out and like the video up there!
BASIC TUTORIALS FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO:
Caverns and caves: • Flat Caves Are Boring ...
Grassland tiles: • I Hate Flat Grasslands...
Temple blocks Tutorial: • Easy Modular Temple Te...
Mountainblocks: • MountainBlocks - DIY c...
Videos with dungeon tile options - Basic card tab connections ( • In-Depth Modular Walls... ), advanced card tab connections ( • Flat Caves Are Boring ... )
MORE ADVANCED STUFF:
Lava terrain: • Make Realistic Volcani...
Modular scaffolds: • The Only Scaffolds You...
Realistic roads: • Flat 'Hovering' Roads ...
Temple block castle wall addons: • In-Depth Modular Walls...
OTHER USEFUL STUFF:
Painting Stone tutorial: • How to Paint Stone - T...
Basing video: • Why I Changed My Basin...
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:39 1
02:08 Free STL
03:29 2
03:24 3
05:33 4
06:36 5
Check out my full modular terrain systems: bit.ly/RPArchiveChannel
Follow the channel to make sure you catch new videos as they're released:
Facebook: bit.ly/RPArchiveFB
Instagram: bit.ly/RPArchiveINSTA
For any metric users who aren't comfortable with using the inches side of the ruler, I've linked a conversion calculator here: www.rapidtables.com/convert/l...
#Rparchive #Archivetips #Archivemodularterrain

[@vvizard_vveed3604]

I was literally thinking in my head the whole time, "I wonder how expensive his 3d printer set up is" and then you revealed the foam. Faster, cheaper, easier to manipulate, the tin foil trick, you're a genius bro. This is exactly what I've been trying to find, but didn't even know I was looking for. Thank you

[@darklros]

what an useful advice and not just for D&D, even though Warhammer players may not like the grid pattern on the more organic environements (like caves and grasslands) but it's easily avoidable, this goes to my favs :)

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Definitely! 😁

[@corphish129]

I'm probably never going to make terrain for my games, but these videos are enchanting. Making terrain seems like practically a separate hobby, and if I were less busy, I'd be sorely tempted to try it out.

[@KingVikidin]

this channel is incredibly under rated

[@villain19192]

I just wanted to say, I have seen many vids about making terrain and dungeon tiles but was never really inspired. After watching this vid I immediately started building dungeon tiles and walls. You have inspired me, I've watched this vid about 4 times since and am still in awe. You have something special here, keep at it and no doubt you will boom on youtube.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

That is amazing to hear Jesse! 😁 I hope you really enjoy what you end up with :)

[@depapa701]

Awesome. I made a little list for myself a few weeks ago to find the videos I need. Every video on my list is mentioned here 😅 thank you for this summary it comes in handy

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Glad I could help 😄

[@ChuckLauer]

This is incredible. I love all your videos (and am a patron), but honestly this jig is very likely to be the secret ingredient that lets me really take off on some of these projects. Thank you! And thank you to the person who came up with the idea!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks for the support Chuck! Glad I could help 😁

[@jameseustice7144]

Extremely helpful! Just what I needed, there's always so much to do, so little time, and I always have trouble prioritizing.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Glad it was useful James :)

[@hyperskeletonhead]

didnt this release 2 minutes ago or is the computer acting up

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Patrons get early access :)

[@walterbarr9709]

Matt, maybe it's just me but everytime I see your spiders; either on the ground or up the walls; I love 'em. They are fabulous. Love your work mate.

[@RandomStuff404s]

This unlocked a new hobby for me. Thanks for sharing

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Glad to hear it!

[@rakion299]

I love to see you create some dessert themed modular tiles. Dunes could be really cool in the stile of the hill terrain

[@colinnielsen74]

Sorry to be that guy, 6 months later. But it's Desert

[@rakion299]

@@colinnielsen74 i think you understood me wrong, i want ice cream themed tiles

[@michele3900]

@@rakion299 What do dunes and hills have to do with ice cream :)

[@jennythyme1729]

​@@michele3900dunes of caramel and whipped cream...

[@Reno0513]

Short and sweet, yet packed with useful information. Thanks!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Reno!

[@edwardhood6252]

I've watched every video that is on your channel, as of the time of this comment, and I will DEFFINITELY be revisiting them as I begin building my terrain for gaming.

[@user-pn3ov5qy6d]

Just found your channel after decades of flat builds and bulky dungeons. Fantastic content! Thank you! (Ive started with your Skyrim themed wood platforms!)

[@cedric233]

It's a very good job. Watching your game tables is a real pleasure, playing a game on them must be just beautiful and enjoyable !!! Thanks to sharing with us !

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Ced!

[@robertevans3173]

Have a good time on Vacation. And please be safe. Thank you for the content. Even those of us who have been around for a while can use what is here. Thanks again.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Robert :) I will!

[@hadynmcloughlin4661]

Love the simplicity of these design and tips thanks for sharing

[@mathewspieker]

First video. Earned the subscription already.

[@LetsTalkLions]

Bro, this is incredible. First off, your dedication to creating an artistic video WHILE also creating visually stunning DND tiles is amazing. The whole thing is inspiring. Thanks for all the tips and links provided

[@vladtheinhaler146]

This is the BEST channel for crafting. Recommended for intermediate level. But after you get a few beginner items under your belts, this is where the Masters live.

[@vladtheinhaler146]

Hey do you have facebook. I made toppers for "stackers" i think they're better than everything else. I'd like to share the idea with everyone.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Not a public Facebook group, there is a private one for patrons though :) If you share it in creative table designs or tabletop crafters guild and mention me that should work too - message me it on Facebook (to the page) in case I miss it!

[@tiffanylamb1187]

I am so excited I found your site. I expect I am going to learn a ton. Thank you in advance!

[@Eantrin]

Those buildings with the bright blue shingles and medieval style make me think of wc3 human structures and that makes me smile.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

That was the inspiration :)

[@Missclicked]

thank you so mutch this was the exact thing I needed

[@greenweave3882]

Wow..... havent check out ur videos since you taught me to make amazing terrain out of cardboard!!! This has come a long way! Simply amazing!!!!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks man! 😁

[@andrewbowenssylvanianfamilies]

After seeing everything that you have done with the magnets, I am never going to use sellotape again when mounting tiles and walls together. Your work is amazing.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Andrew! I've been exploring magnetization further in bonus videos on my Patreon for accessories and more, if you're curious :)

[@andrewbowenssylvanianfamilies]

@@RPArchiveOfficial Excellent. Well, I have just ordered a load of magnets now, and I will be converting all my model sections very soon.

[@TomJones0065]

This is a GREAT REMINDER of all your Art, I have been needing some refreshing on these very things, I myself NEED A HOLDIDAY/VACATION. Refresh regroup is ALWAYS A good idea when ones thoughts get CLOUDY! And Damn my mind is FOGGY these days, THANKS SO MUCH! I will Find a way to take a Well over due Vacation/Holiday! Have Fun!! THANKS SO MUCH, " who would not like this video" DA!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks man, definitely hoping a holiday is the solution! 😁

[@kayura77]

Excellent video! 💯😁 Enjoy yourself on holiday!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thank you! That's the plan 😄

[@robavie]

Have a wonderful holiday. Relax, refresh, and restore.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Rob :)

[@janthummler3548]

very helpful, tanks! Enjoy your holiday

[@4plainlimbs]

Enjoy your holiday! Well earned. Class tutorials and your vids are a highlight. Thinking for an “easy vid” for you. Maybe a showcase of your different terrain? Maybe with some nice dioramas? Just so we can see the pinnacle of modular terrain in 1 go!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Honestly might be a good one if I can find a good title - getting people to click is half the battle! 😄

[@4plainlimbs]

@@RPArchiveOfficial “the most modular board in existence, I can make anything with this” I sympathise!

[@animeguysrhot50x]

Loving the old content throwbacks 😋

[@janetfayard672]

Great video! Solved many of the questions I had for terrain! Thanks so much!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Glad I could help Janet!

[@gideoncurry4921]

New to your channel but damn man, you got some gorgeous set pieces

[@rhiotre1958]

Fantastic video as always! Enjoy your holiday and that battery recharge! Look forward to seeing you again soon!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks man!

[@bywd]

Love your stuff matt! Have a nice holiday

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Much appreciated man, I did! 😁

[@KevinTheDane]

Your stuff is just amazing! I've watched it thrice now 😅 If I ever find time to make my D&D channel, I'm definitely going to make my stuff RP Archive compatible 😊

[@Carty239]

Have a great holiday, Matt! Looks like I'm going to hold off on making those mountain blocks for the update! (I'm loving all the magnetisation)

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

I did! I'll be looking at the upgraded blocks soon enough - just want to make sure they're gonna work right 😄 I'll keep showing updates on it in the livestreams!

[@Carty239]

@@RPArchiveOfficial Glad you had a good break, you deserved it! Don't rush, we appreciate your quality control.

[@jacobhope6164]

Thanks Matt! Enjoy your holiday!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Been, returned and launched a patreon discord server the second I got back 😂 it was very relaxing thank you :)

[@TheMalvoron]

Okay, that's it. You got me. I've watched your Videos the last few weeks/months and got really hyped. But that video was the last drop i needed. and i finally subscribed to your patreon. Material and Wirecutter came today. Though had some trouble finding the right magnets that are cheap in Germany (and don't take 3 weeks to get here) Will start the crafting today, thanks for kindeling my inner fire!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Awesome to hear man! Let me know if you have any questions 😄

[@brandongiles6875]

Inspiring. I think the fist thing I need to do is magnetize my already existing dungeon tiles, then start on some walls.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Awesome! Good luck man!

[@richardokeeffe8375]

Brilliant! Just what we needed!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Richard!

[@christophermurray9777]

Great vid

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Chris :)

[@Drajika]

Beautiful! everything! just... beautiful. well done Mr RP Archive!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks Ted! 😁

[@BrokenTypewriter_]

I think his name is Matt, not sure really, I dont think he's ever said it 🤣

[@RaiderAvian]

Your videos are wonderful and am glad that you came this far with the support of fans. Hope you have a great time on vacation. While am sure that your patron group has plenty of ideas going about, have you ever considered incorporating found objects in your builds? I saw your use hair curlers for cages. Have you noticed beer caps can hold minis? Some can be used as markers, or even help non-magnet minis hold on. I dont have magnets for my games (though am looking forward to building my own terrain one day, when living conditions are more in favour of it, lol). But found these caps very useful for my tree trunks (more like freestanding logs lol) to indicate to players which ones are 'climable' and others that are too skinny to support them. I am planning on making more support caps for minis climing walls, walking on angled surfaces etc. Your hollow base minis look cool and very versatile, though personally like thin bases so they dont look like they are on mini plinths. Looking forward to your next video!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Interesting idea! I generally try to avoid materials if I can still tell what they are originally under the finished paint job, but that's personal taste :)

[@ravencraft3074]

your skill is amazing. I need to step up my game.

[@powersave2]

Enjoy your break! Get recharged and then come back with more epic builds!

[@andygb4]

great video as usual. Now I only need the time to actually build all these awesome things!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

You'll get there :) a little here, a little there...

[@ResoluteGryphon]

This video is a very nice showcase reel. All of your builds look amazing!

[@tonysmoot3712]

I need those magnetic interior walls sooo bad!!! I'm gonna have to see if I can afford the patreon. Can't wait to see what inspiration you bring back from vacation! lol

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Awesome! Massively appreciate the support man, and the interior wall video isn't quite out on patreon yet, so you've got a month or two anyway :) That said there's other stuff on there and I really appreciate the support 😅

[@LilyHooper]

Im just getting started building. I got most of the tools I needed a while ago but I got busy with work and now I'm getting back into it. This video is amazing and really helped me kind of understand where and what I want to start with. I think I'll just start with a nice set of dungeon tiles maybe like 20 or so 3x3 and a few bigger and smaller ones here and there. I figure I can always build onto that nice base of stuff and they should make good enough floors for houses when I start making walls too. I've been dming for years and have always wanted to add more verticality over just plain battle maps and I am excited to try my hand at this kind of stuff. Seeing the cave demo you had in this video really excited me to get working on this stuff. I just really hope I can find some 3inch xps foam because gluing a bunch of 1 inch foam sounds like such a pain. Thank you for the great video.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Awesome to hear! I've actually got a variant of the Mountainblocks coming soon on my Patreon as a bonus video, it should be easier to make with 1" foam :)

[@turnipslop3822]

Nice video bud, hope you get a really good rest and recharge as much as you need! Looking forward to your return ✌️

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Me too! I want charged batteries for the next project 😁

[@aneknymph4946]

Nice video. For a feedback: - Dimensions - In intro put pieces made/presented in video on the mat to clearly show its dimensions and compiled cheat sheet for basic pieces dimensions like for materials would be nice (especially the height of the things isn't accented enough and hard to find after a few movies from the series). - Other thing i would add to a video (or 4plainlimbs showcase idea) is estimated amount of materials for different project (like hill, building, temple set) in similar way to recipes in cooking series. For a starting questions with xps cutting and materials: - I plan to create custom foam cutter as i have electric heart of it ready, what is best height for the wire? - What is best foam size to choose to start build modular dungeon if locally I have available in tolerable prices: 3, 6, 9, 20, 30, 50, 80mm and, with low amount in shop, 10, 12, 18mm?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

I'd go 30mm and trim it down to either half inch or 1 inch as needed. I can't advise on the homemade hot wire, I've never made one or done a tutorial on one :)

[@ItsREMCodes]

First of all: woah. I just found this channel in my recommended videos, and I am blown away. I don't understand how you only have 50k subs. You deserve at least 1M. Second of all: have you considered selling tiles like this? You would be able to sell it for a lot more than the cost of the foam. These tiles are just as good as DwarvenForge tiles, and they seem almost better in some ways, like the weight (foam isn't very heavy). I'm sure there are a lot of people who would love to purchase a set of these without spending $1k+ on DwarvenForge tiles. Last of all, remember me when you are famous 😂

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thank you! Unfortunately logistically selling these things would mean moving focus from the channel, and I much prefer helping people and sharing my ideas this way :) Long term I'm planning some other stuff for people with little time, but I need more patreon support before I can get it all set up :)

[@Stuggesjoerd89]

Nice video!

[@kwequay5605]

Pretty sure we've watched the entire back catalogue several times, I'd love to know, have you ever done a video or write up of your crafting desk? Your full setup for paint storage, magnets for hanging tools, etc?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

I have not :) the vast majority of it boils down to hobbyzone desk modules - even the magnets I hang the rulers on 😄

[@kwequay5605]

@@RPArchiveOfficial thanks so much for getting back to me so quick! I will check them out :)

[@OhNoRh1no]

can you make a playlist of all the videos you mentioned - that way one can progress through them easily knowing they are doing things in the "right" order? awesome and inspiring stuff - thank you!!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Good idea! I'll make one as soon as I get a chance after the holiday :)

[@xornxenophon3652]

Very nice; I will start with some trees and grasslands.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Sounds cool :)

[@famguyrules90]

Matt your stuff is so good! Just got done making my first set of 16 magnetised floor tiles with your flagston texture you showed on patreon, and while I'm definitely still perfecting my process for accuracy and evenness, I am still super happy with the result. Going to start making some wall tiles next. How many would you reccomend as a good amount to make? Thanks for your amazing content mate!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Thanks man! There's a list of how much I made of each thing in the archive index pinned post on patreon :)

[@EnkkyRiver]

Master!!!

[@goronenthusiast]

Been looking at getting into TTRPGs for a while now and man, have these videos been helpful/inspirational, keep up the amazing work! One question I had is how do you tend to implement terrain into your games? I.e. you use terrain for everywhere, only encounters, or kind of an in between. Any answers would be hugely beneficial, thanks!

[@guylaindeschenes9793]

Wow. Really like your modular tiles system. You should sell 3d printable STL files off it, with places to glue magnets already built-in.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Give me time... 😅

[@MySolaar]

nice!

[@TerraNova208]

First of all, your video is amazing! One on the best end result I've seen so I've decided to start following your turotial for my own collection! A quick question though. How many of each tiles and blocks would you recommend for a versatile yet not too time-intensive set? I'm Planning on starting at cave/grasslands/brick tiles then on to walls and blocks later. Thank you so much for making these videos!!!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

I think I mention in the notes at the top for the cave tiles, I'm currently working on an easy to browse index of all my projects and videos with my comments, notes and suggested build amounts in the pinned post over on patreon :) it's not quite finished yet, but recommended amounts is something I'm looking to add soon!

[@gustafwidegard7768]

Your creations are stunning and your videos really informative and calming to watch. Thank you!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Well thank you for watching Gustaf! 😁

[@xamotrogue4362]

Hi Matt... Just found your channel...you're brilliant m8. I'm beginning to plan a layout. Not for TTRPG, but more like a model railroad crossed with MTG. My plan is to use 1/18th scale action figures on terrain using cards for the hero and separate cards for the equipment. Your system is precisely what I'm looking for. 2 questions....can the STL be scaled up enough to use at the level I need? And how do I go about getting some. Love the channel....

[@CyFr]

might recommend for mountain terrain to make the surface out of foam and use cardboard for your vertical heights using magnets to snap them together.

[@metal8113]

When are you going to stream a hour play through of your next campaign using all the cool terrain? Id pay to watch 😂

[@jennythyme1729]

Agreed!

[@connorbingham-davis2091]

Love this video, and it's got me started on hobby crafting tabletop terrain. One question though: does anyone else struggle to get the magnet polarity right when gluing them to the basic dungeon tiles? Does anyone have any tips for avoiding accidently getting the same polarity facing each other? I always seem to get the wrong polarities aligned.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Do all the South, then all the north, don't bounce between the two :)

[@reinaldorodrigues8425]

Oh boy this is a job well done! But i would like to give you a challenge, how abouta make a custom chess grid as if it was a warfare

[@themaydayman]

Do you recommend using a 2x2 or 3x3 basis for terrain and why?

[@nicklasandersen7785]

would be nice with a video of the most important tools of trade.

[@anonymousclone6453]

Ok, so I’ve got a question, since I haven’t found a video super focused on it…what dimension and tips/tricks would you use for walls??? I’ve watched several videos of yours that included walls and I can’t seem to find a concrete answer(I could also be oblivious if you have made one, which I wouldn’t put pass me) thanks and keep up your amazing job!

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

This video has all the initial info on walls :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3OTaZd5asZ0pZo Then there's extra stuff in the cottage video. The recent getting started video has a better version of the floor tile tutorial, and Patreon has an even further updated magnetic version with interior wall functionality :) Also in the patreon there's an index post I'm building up with timestamped links to each relevant video for each project and extra tips and tricks I've used/thought of since then. So far it's just for the core stone walls/floors etc, but I'm aiming to expand it to all my videos :)

[@brooksdibble6685]

Incwab! Matt I love you

[@lilcaps]

I use hexagonal prisms so I just make terrain digitally and cut it out in a grid for 3d printing but seeing this I might start using foam

[@ShaiBoiz]

i have seen a ton of your videos and have been inspired to make dungeon tiles. I've got one question though, can i use other XPS foam or should i mainly use the one you linked in the equipment list?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

You can use other xps, though quality varies :)

[@stuartsmith6823]

Your videos and ideas are Awesome. I am just starting to getting into DND since I was a kid. Anyways the one question I have is should the grid system be 1 inch or 1.25. The minis I have all go over the 1 inch but fit nicely on 1.25. These are wizkid deep cuts minis.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

The grid is there but I never even use it anymore. Ruler and measuring is so much better, just by giving everyone a little measuring pipe cleaner :) It's designed around 1" though, 1. 25 won't fit the tiles, and changing widths messes with tile compatibility

[@xMISTERxJ]

Love the video and I'm absolutely going to try making some but I was wondering where I can get a copy of the modified jig that was created. The link in the description doesn't have the open layout jig so walls can be made too.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

The jigs in the video should be available on patreon, not sure which specific jig you're referring to? :) maybe timestamp it so I can see?

[@xMISTERxJ]

@@RPArchiveOfficial The half inch one you show @ 2:18. That was probably my mistake, I just clicked the thingiverse link and saw the other versions but I'll check the patreon.

[@i.am.willow]

I love how these squares can be so versatile. As someone who is brand new to building, could you recommend the tools and materials needed to start?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Check out my equipment list, there's a getting started section :)

[@Rasnadov]

Awesome video. For Next GET STARTED you could show some alternatives to Foam Board. I have a really hard work trying to find them where i'm from, and when i do, its expensive...

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Have you seen my fast and cheap tips video? I did a section on that exact topic :)

[@Rasnadov]

So sorry. KZbin says i watched, but my memory fails me... well... lets watch it again. Thanks.

[@HollyEBrown]

Which magnets do you use for the tiles and what is the tool you’re using to make the little holes, I couldn’t locate them on your materials list.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Magnet guide and glue gun advice is in the equipment list in the description :)

[@AuqiaGamer]

There seem to be many options for foam to buy, from a little workshop I still have some blue colored foam left, but that isn't thick enough to my opinion to make floor tiles out off.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Try ordering sheets online, 25mm/1" thick is usually good, though I go 2" now I have more experience cutting (it can be challenging for a newbie)

[@UltronMark1]

Where did you get the saw to cut the foam?

[@HeinzTab-lx9wo]

Hi, this video was very nice im just wondering:where can i get the plates youre using

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Plates?

[@davinci3259]

The printable tile markers that you made would they also work for magnetizing if you cut off the pointy piece and glued magnets in place of them, or would the magnets need reversed every other tile? I don't have the stuff on hand to try and I think I may have it mixed up.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Yes they would, though a specific jig for that has been made by patrons and posted on the private Facebook group :)

[@jonathanlochridge9462]

I find your modular terrain system interesting and useful. One thing I have been thinking about is what sort of tiles would be usable for both sci-fi, steampunk, post-apocalyptic, and fantasy games? Grass and hills can obviously be used for a wide variety of games. Sandy or rocky tiles as well. Cave tiles are fairly flexible too. I think a lot of the wall designs and such could be painted to look sci-fi or post apocalyptic at least. Steampunk is a bit easier as I think you could juat take the standard terrain and throw in some pipes. Or maybe a few roofs with more smokestacks that look more industrial

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Pretty much as you say, wood shacks also work well in all 4 :)

[@jonathanlochridge9462]

@@RPArchiveOfficial I guess so. I know for rundown areas trash barricades with texture and stuff work well across both sci-fi and post apocalyptic. Sometimes steampunk? But those usually don't fit and clash with anything fantasy. Although, I have been thinking about alternate coloration for tile types. You mentioned add-ons in a lot of your videos. But more brown and dead looking grass tiles could be used in more evil areas to enhance to look in combination with other modular wall tiles and such.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

True :)

[@bphibbs88]

Hey, started following your videos recently. I really love your work! I'm curious, it seems like you use 3 inches as your kind of standard measurement for tiles and lengths of walls. What is your reasoning for this? Why not 4 or 5 inches?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Matching BMC 3" tiles initially :)

[@rancid002]

If I don't have the time to invest in learning to be crafty. Is there a place where I can purchase premade sets of organized pieces I can rearrange and reuse regularly?

[@felipeklerkk]

Super cool this one. Maybe I miss a part but there is a thing make my craft life a nightmare. After finish a craft using sealing like varnish or mod podge. Then, after giving a good time to driy (more than a week). When I put tiles together. Magnetis are getting stuck taking off the paiting. This situation happen so ofter, piecies made more than a month (with meaning super dried) happen to, this situation is worse when use a 6x2mm magnetics. Are there a way to ensure the paint is fully dried and it will not stick each other? should I use a specific sealing? looks like the paint are still wet for a looongg lonng time, then when have a pressure (2 tiles together) they "leak" off glueing on the outher tile.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

This can be mitigated by a few things. Spray with a few layers of matte varnish to finish, matte is important its less smooth and bonds less. Heat also makes the bonding happen. Acrylics take a long time to fully cure even if dry, don't attach them for storage for maybe a week. Finally, adding dirt grout weathering as in my city tile video practically removes the problem I found. Magnets are a separate problem, check out the equipment list glue gun section, massively makes it easier. You can also reglue popped out magnets with superglue as it'll stick to the hot glue in the hole and not melt the foam. Or use foam safe superglue instead, is something I'm trying :)

[@bigkovie3273]

good

[@justinotherday6199]

XPS Foam has freaked me out for a while. I've been using dollar store foam core boards, and it gets the job done, but it is what it is. Can anyone offer any advice for someone without a hot wire cutter that is looking to move toward XPS? Best way to cut for clean edges perhaps? Thanks for your content, Matt. Hope you had/are having a great holiday.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Multiple small cuts with a sharp knife :) black magic craft has a video on just that actually! It's in his beginner playlist

[@greglensink5265]

Great vid! Just found this channel and I am excited to check out more videos. I could use an Amazon link for those magnets if anyone can share one? Thanks in advance.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

There are links in the equipment list in the description, amazon is usually overpriced, even though the channel would get some income if I put up links for it. I'd rather not send you guys to massively overpriced stuff though :)

[@ReaperOFblackghosts]

I think i got my tile system figured out. Using a mix of yours with som modifications. I put a rubber metalic sheet inside and as long as its only 2mm foam on the top everything with a magnet like minis/furnitures or walls will stick really well. The issue before was the top foam was 5mm thick and it was to thick for most minis magnets. Then i use your magnetic system to the sides. Once i done that i will see to expand to all sorts of tiles making and mixing so they all work togheter. Soon as the dungeon starting we move on to wood tiles. Grass/desert/snow/pavememt. Then i think i look in to the caves you made and see how well they fit with what i made. We figure we make 2 types of walls. 1 side wall. Similar how you make yours with magnets that attach. Then center walls that just have magnets flat down and top to stack but that we make half the size for easy vision over incase we end up having allot to move around. Your guides been gold to me. Thanks.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Glad to hear it! 😁

[@remyxedfern5008]

What paints do you use?

[@CaperGamez]

Hey Matt, if I only have the knife thingy (I forgot the name) will that still work fine for all of your stuff?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Not all, for modular tiles you really want a proxxon for accuracy and precise angles But you can get started with a knife just fine, get used to making some scatter terrain until you're ready to invest in the cutter and get started properly :) Incidentally the cutter saves you money in the long run on knife blades!

[@sunshineunicornfart]

what is the foam do you use?

[@Erosionvidkiller]

❤

[@BrickInTheHead]

one question: so I magnetize my minis' bases for storage/transport purposes. does that result in folks' minis moving around on magnetized terrain? if it does I may need to stick with the good old fashioned skewer method :P

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Only if you use powerful magnets in the minis bases, which some do. Smaller magnets, less effect :) This it why I encourage temporary attachment through the steel strips beneath 😄 I show more in my basing video :)

[@manuelvazquez1680]

In seeing 25psi and 40psi foam. Do you have a preference and does it matter in the grand scheme?

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

There's a guide on foam in the equipment list, I believe the bit on US foam mentions compression strength :)

[@jibbyjackjoe]

I'm going to get back into crafting. My question is are the card slot tabs really needed? I'm trying to find a system that isn't going to have unnecessary steps (because I may have limited time). There seems to be both magnets and card tabs.

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

Card tab slots are absolutely not needed. Honestly their only purpose now is stability of the upper floors of large buildings (3+ full 3" tiles across in BOTH directions). If you aren't gonna make that, you don't need them. If you decide later you want to make that, make a few more floor tiles and you're set 😂

[@calvin4d]

What materials do you use and where do you get them? You sound like you're from the North East as well so if you know any good shops I'd love a pointer 😊

[@RPArchiveOfficial]

It's all in the equipment list in the description - you'll get more detail there than I can fit in a comment 😄 I am! Honestly though I get most of my stuff online, I think the only physical shops I use are games workshop, hobbycraft, wickes and North East Model Centre (the model shop on the Chester-le-Street dual carriageway), and even then usually only when I can't get quick enough delivery 😂