The ONLY things you NEED to START making TERRAIN!

[@BlackMagicCraftOfficial]

*THE LIST!* I will link to the general searches as listings often change for some of these items and for most brand or exact selection does not matter. Buy what has the best price and shipping for your location. Don't forget many of these items can be purchased most cost effectively in local retailers. Specific item listens are linked on my Essential Equipment page on www.blackmagiccraft.ca X-Acto Knife (USA) amzn.to/37577Bf (Canada) amzn.to/39ZNRGX (UK) amzn.to/39ZODUn (Germany) amzn.to/2VUv9bp Olfa Utility Knife (USA) amzn.to/33TSEpp (Canada) amzn.to/2VX1f6y (UK) amzn.to/37PhdoF (Germany) amzn.to/3n1ZRLS Scissors (USA) amzn.to/37PEQO8 (Canada) amzn.to/3m4rthY (UK) amzn.to/37Lur65 (Germany) amzn.to/37Nw9ns Carpenter (Framing) Square - 8"x12" (USA) amzn.to/37IOL84 (Canada) amzn.to/33Ymido (UK) amzn.to/2IwxB4V (Germany) amzn.to/2VWtYs9 Metal Ruler (With Metric and Imperial units) (USA) amzn.to/36WKS06 (Canada) amzn.to/3n3vwfJ (UK) amzn.to/3m30of0 (Germany) amzn.to/2VUvElN Cutting Mats (USA) amzn.to/3gwcmwL (Canada) amzn.to/2JMJjcc (UK) amzn.to/3m1LDZS (Germany) amzn.to/3lUKnIc Wire Brush (USA) amzn.to/2JSdaQx (Canada) amzn.to/3qKwMXI (UK) amzn.to/3gudSzg (Germany) amzn.to/3qIMXo8 Mini Hot Glue Guns (USA) amzn.to/2IAg0cu (Canada) amzn.to/3m0r8Ni (UK) amzn.to/3n2TRm7 (Germany) amzn.to/36XN1sr PVA Glue (USA) amzn.to/3m1XcAy (Canada) amzn.to/3m7KyjC (UK) amzn.to/2JFaSo1 (Germany) amzn.to/2VYaC60 Tacky Glue (USA) amzn.to/3lZsLuH (Canada) amzn.to/37MNCwm (UK) amzn.to/33VbkFo (Germany) amzn.to/2VUoZZ5 Matte Mod Podge (USA) amzn.to/2JOlUau (Canada) amzn.to/2KbxGva (UK) amzn.to/2VWsmP7 (Germany) amzn.to/2VYXZHY Acrylic Craft Paint (USA) amzn.to/3n2gHu5 (Canada) amzn.to/2IwwG4t (UK) amzn.to/39YSqBk (Germany) amzn.to/3gCf1oM Bulk Craft Brushes (USA) amzn.to/3lYdMkF (Canada) amzn.to/2VZzZEm (UK) amzn.to/370xzMd (Germany) amzn.to/371X2Vi Medium Weight Chipboard (USA) amzn.to/3lUFKhi (Canada) amzn.to/3lYRkI3 (UK) amzn.to/2K4HYNY (Germany) amzn.to/3n7DTas (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)

[@blackslashmail]

I know of the set you are referencing. Thank you for pointing out the lack of value in that box.

[@ninjamel_official5730]

I literally go to the thrift store in the U.S. called Goodwill and you can find that Apple barrel craft paint ( most of the time unopened but in random colors) for like $.35 sometimes $.50 but it's always a deal!! Also all kinds of crafting materials! Seriously no joke! Plaster of paris, all kinds of glues (mod podge, etc.), paint of all kinds, paper of all kind like construction paper, chip board, styrene, and more! I've even found flocking and stuff that was woodland scenics brand for model train dioramas... Plenty of bits and bobs.... It's like a treasure trove of awesomeness for a terrain builder!!!!

[@1986fritzthecat]

i got one of those carpenters squares at my dollar tree in canada. its pretty sturdy/chunky

[@claframboise]

dollar tree (in Canada) sells metal squares for $1.25

[@Nekrishi1971]

Great informative video for beginners and really all levels of crafters, thank you for keeping it real and simple sir, it is much appreciated

[@Jarethenator]

Alternate Title: "Man Waves Knives At Camera For Good Cause"

[@bryanbeasley6037]

And now a word from our sponsor: band aids, for when you cut your finger waiving knives at camera.

[@bryanbeasley6037]

I’m currently wearing one from our sponsor. Thanks band aid!

[@iknownothing-49]

And burn goo for steaming fingertips after using glue gun.

[@-Benedict]

@@iknownothing-49 Getting to the point where you can happily wipe away excess hot glue with your fingers is a rite of passage in the hobby.

[@iknownothing-49]

@@-Benedict I no longer have fingerprints. Maybe that’s a good thing.

[@Prander5x5]

Cop: What are you doing in there? Me: (crawling out of the recycling bin) I'm getting started!

[@davemoeder3859]

LOL!

[@gorillacowman1]

Furniture store recycling bins are a great to get large sheets of cardboard.

[@MandruDuce]

Not enough comments of appreciation for the work put into making the list of amazon links for each material presented in the vid in FOUR countries across the globe. You have a wonderful Christmas alongside your family Jeremy. May we all be back healthy and relaxed after the Holiday season. We will surely be here waiting for you!!!

[@BlackMagicCraftOfficial]

That took almost as long as editing the video 😂

[@thestalkinghead]

@@BlackMagicCraftOfficial i have added this video to my favorites, and that amazon list for reference is a big reason for that (appreciation from the UK)

[@MaximilianonMars]

@@BlackMagicCraftOfficial yeah man, my hat off to you. That's a lot of value you're adding to the community.

[@everybodytogether5532]

Hot glue, mod podge and cheap craft paints. You've taught me well over the years. Made my dnd games one for the history books. Makes my warhammer games have style. Youre the man BMC

[@baz8484]

The struggle of not living in a English-speaking country and having to do extra research just to find out what the materials are called in your language

[@yungvino9379]

this but american watching japanese videos lol

[@broforcefreedom4936]

Use chatgpt if they have it in your country

[@gorkamorka999]

The scraps section of your local DIY store deserves a honorable mention. And cereal boxes. Can't talk about building scenery without mentioning cereal boxes.

[@The_Bat]

Oat packets according to Bard's craft. LOL

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Most of us start on cereal boxes but then move on pretty quickly to other materials as the thin cardboard warps too easily.

[@joseibanez227]

You forgot the most important element: SPACE to store your creations

[@jherazob]

This is what I lack, i'll literally need to remove things from my pile of shame just to be able to get more minis, much less terrain, I envy those huge shelves and space!

[@notreallydavid]

@@jherazob Canada's a big place, j.

[@dewaynealtemiller364]

Lol I just stoped by a local game shop today and dropped off a couple pieces of terrain to make room they love me lol

[@willmfrank]

I have a cunning plan: Use XPS to build a TARDIS...

[@jherazob]

@@willmfrank post a tutorial afterwards!

[@GoobertownHobbies]

So wholesome, so useful, so SAVAGE

[@AlvarazCMSB]

hard dab on *****

[@Sitrane]

Man you are NOT kidding. I'm glad someone finally had the gull to call *ahem* this company out on this and that's coming from someone who really like's their products. This is just tone deaf and a blatant money grab.

[@BlackMagicCraftOfficial]

@@Sitrane I also like many of their products and don’t have any issue with them in general. But this one is a hard NO from me.

[@Sitrane]

@@BlackMagicCraftOfficial I felt the exact same way as soon as I saw it. The idea is admirable and I understand what they are trying to do but the items included, at the price point they are asking is crazy. I hope they take a really hard look and adjust their pricing considerably or adjust the content included.

[@AJ-es1cw]

@@Sitrane what company is selling this set out of curiosity?

[@barryfriesen8062]

Sometimes a 'back to basics' is exactly what you need. Thanks Jeremy, this will help more people get into this fun hobby. Keep up the good work!

[@phalanx1234]

Toothpicks or sewing pins are also a really good thing to have on hand. Lets you pin pieces together while glue dries. For tooth picks, these can be used as spikes or even rudimentary fencing, while flat-top sewing pins can be used as rivets for industrial work. Both are also super cheap to buy in bulk, usually for a dollar or two.

[@RobertGGagne]

I was just searching the comments to see if someone else mentioned this. I use them so much.

[@evanlane1690]

Love this. And for bigger diameters, a bag of bamboo skewers from the grocery store is cheap and works well too.

[@LSFprepper]

XPS foam hack (sort of) . . . These big box stores that sell 4x8 sheets of foam get them shipped in a large "bunk" of sheets. These bunks are stacked on top of "stackers" that are also made of xps foam, and are typically 4 inches x 2 inches x 4ft and are THROWN AWAY when the stack is empty. If you make nice with the employees you can get these for free if available when they're stocking or cleaning up. Great source of free material if you think outside the box while in the big box. lol

[@BudgetChaos]

I totally recommend getting one of those cheap nail care kit from like the dollar store :D They usually come with like a nail clipper, tweezer, paper/metal files, & nail scissor. Nail clippers/Nail scissors is a decent flush cutters on a pinch & Nail files is great for sanding small area. Is a great cheap set of tools to cut/sand small detail works. Toothpick and Qtips is also useful to have around the desk :D Hope this is useful to someone :D

[@PhoenyxAshe]

I often recommend those same kits for polymer clay work - especially if craft wire armatures are involved.

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

You can often find higher end nail care kits in carboot sales, typically made in the 1960s or earlier. They sell for peanuts.

[@jackhelm9852]

Having watched your videos from near the beginning, I have already heard you talk about this very topic so many times, I almost did not click on the vid this time. But I am glad I did. Your purpose for this video was spot on and I am glad you did it and hope it will allow folks thinking about starting to realize it does not have to be so daunting a task to get started in. As always your gift is making it all easy to grasp and less intimidating to try. And THAT is eventually why I went ahead and watched the video even though I was pretty sure there was not much new info for me in it. Learning how to break down the hobby and make it accessible is always worth learning and for this old crafter, you always teach me things for doing that. Thank you sir and have a wonderful Christmas/New Year holiday time. See you in the new year, my friend.

[@Blandco]

I would have never started crafting stuff unless I saw channels like this on the Tabletop Crafter's Guild. If I saw some $99 set in a store I would have just assumed that I couldn't afford the hobby.

[@willmfrank]

Out of sheer economic necessity I started practising a technique that I call "Zero-Budget Crafting."

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Most folks will have crafting odds n ends just lying around the house: old box cutter knives, children’s bristle paint brushes, school glue, and more besides. Surprising what can be repurposed!

[@davidkeyser128]

A nice addition to the metal square is a rectangular block magnet to use as a handle. Really helps to hold it in place and easily move it around.

[@ProjectKhopesh]

I've been able to ask local photography or frame shops for the matboard they would otherwise throw away, cut from the inside of mats they prepare for display. Sometimes they save those bits for local school art teachers, but sometimes they have some I can just come and take for free. The color and sometimes odd shapes don't matter, since I'm going to be mangling them for my own use, either in terrain/scenery or in board game designs that I make.

[@jinnqmarak1la]

I have most of that stuff at my house! Maybe I should start making terrain... 🤔

[@matthiaspridgeon9420]

Hell yeah!

[@BlackMagicCraftOfficial]

Correct!

[@moemilkshakes7532]

You should!

[@juliehamel8330]

Do it!

[@anthonystike6034]

I will be the fifth yes.

[@kellanr1941]

Great list and great video! As a new crafter, I can confirm, this is ALL you need to get started in this hobby. But, here is one more item that I find very useful. It is a cheap pair of wire cutters. These are very useful for cutting things easier than with scissors, or things you simply can't cut with scissors, such as popsicle sticks, plastic bits, and much more. The ones included in needle-nose pliers are cheap and work just fine.

[@minimishapsgames894]

I have been avoiding making terrain (started a couple months ago with mini painting), but this video took a lot of the anxiety out. Thanks for showing how crafting can be affordable and accessible for us, and I'm more excited to try terrain than ever!

[@DarkMatterWorkshop]

You don’t need much too start AND nearly everything can be used. If i’d love this hobby even more i’d marry it !

[@michimatsch5862]

Dark Matter Workshop You have already put sex paint on rocks you wanted to have in your terrain. At this point you are just delusional.

[@DarkMatterWorkshop]

@@michimatsch5862 out of all the tools & materials in my vids. The sexpaint is the one you remembered.....interesting....😉

[@shinybugg9156]

Another budget tip- if you want to make molds of things, but don't want to buy or make a bunch of silicone molds, get yourself some modelng clay; the oil-based kind that doesn't dry, like Plasticine. You can mold small objects like rocks, fill with Plaster of Paris, and reuse the clay for your next project.

[@juliehamel8330]

Tacky glue can be replicated by letting Elmer's glue sit in the open for a while. The water will evaporate and make it thicker. Just don't let it out too long or it will harden. Sometimes it formes a skin on top, this can be pealed away and has bonus satisfying points 😋 it's nice for trying it out or if you're in a pinch but eventually you will want a bottle because it's more convenient.

[@EricsHobbyWorkshop]

I'm obsessed with Aleens tacky glue since I first tried it a few months ago. Great List!

[@uriance88]

Eric speaks the truth - tacky glue is the bomb (as long as your project can wait the 'setting' time)

[@MichaelAlthauser]

Aleene's is great. I assemble a LOT of mdf terrain, and it makes a super strong bond on that as well.

[@FabienMariauxdeSerres]

For XPS foam, as you mentioned, it can be difficult and/or expensive to find and purchase in some parts of the world. After moving to Norway, where prices can be ludicrous, I searched on a website for classified ads, and I found a couple "companies" who sold unused construction materials, and bought a cubic meter of XPS for the equivalent of 50 USD (including home delivery), in boards of various thicknesses. My point is to look for this kind of deals either online or by asking around. Some construction material stores sometimes (although rarely) discount damaged boards, so it can be worth asking.

[@Lorkynn]

I ended up getting just a regular Al ruler with a cork back for 1.50 USD, and it's a life saver. Because of the cork back, you just have to apply light pressure and it won't move at all, and it makes making straight cuts so much easier.

[@thabian9472]

I find having a bag of popsicle sticks is so damn useful, being able to scrape, splodge, gouge, apply paste, glue, basing stuff, all sorts of things with them, they can also be hobby materials, but as a quick easy tool, they are indespensable. Your videos are the best, I love getting time to sit down and watch your magic. It's inspirational and just great to enjoy and watch, thank you.

[@willmfrank]

You can also carve and sand them, to shape them into custom sculpting tools.

[@xjarhead1999]

Starting off with disclaimer. I now rarely reply now because my words come off as insultive or derogatory when I don't mean to. My brain just makes me to say things exact without considering possible interpretations. I absolutely love the idea about telling people how to be able to enjoy their hobby/craft/whatever in the cheapest way possible. That's what I try to do and promote to others. With that said I'll jump on the purpose of making this post. The purpose of the kits you are bashings, intentional bashing or not, is to help people getting into the hobby. Of course it is also to get whatever company to make money. As much as we may hate these "starter kits" they actually help us. These "starter kits" give people an easy option to get started into a hobby. It makes it appear easy and quick to get started. Once they get started and actually start looking then they can think of ways to do it cheaper or better. Look at your own video here. The current screen I am seeing shows about 15 paints from different companies and you mentioned about a dozen different products from about the same number of different places. To me and you, and anyone else that does hobbies, it makes sense. To someone who has never done it, or still new, it probably seems like a lot of work. We may see all that work as worth it. Someone just starting out may think the reward isn't worth all the work and dedication. The whole idea is kinda like a double edge sword. Some people seeing the starter kits won't get started due to the cost. Those that don't want to spend that much won't get started due to the work to do it cheaply. It's almost like there are only 2 choices to do the hobby. I think a better route in getting people involved is walking in the middle ground. Let them know they can buy or work a quicker route to their goals. I'm not trying to bash your video so please don't think that. BUT, I will say that this is one of my least favorite that you have done. I 100% support any and all videos you have, or will make, to show people they can do the hobby cheaply. I'm just not a fan of bashing anything that can get someone into the hobby. I guess I'm saying that you could have done this video a little different.

[@BlackMagicCraftOfficial]

I disagree.

[@eugenb.8448]

The Dollarama here in Ottawa carries the small and medium sized cutting mats in pink. And they’re very inexpensive. I have two. One for cutting and the other when I paint so that if I need to cut something off a model I don’t fret about the work surface. And after a while it’s easy to know which is which. Paint blobs :-). Dollarama is amazing.

[@mericanadian101]

I am not a gamer, but I love watching your videos for all the little tips and tricks that I can use in my miniature making! I have found that Dollarama (at least here on the east coast) has a really nice crafts section...my favourite find recently was large bottles of tacky glue which is way cheaper than the name-brand stuff! One thing your list is missing....toothpicks! These are great for applying glue, stirring paints, etc etc etc

[@zosoknight]

Perfection. It's also so much easier to store a smaller amount of smaller tools when a lack of living space is a consideration. Just because you've got a tiny apartment or are limited to a single room doesn't mean you can't build awesome stuff. Just chuck it into a storage tote, and use the storage tote as a tiny desk.

[@TaberIV]

I've been crafting since the pandemic started, after I found your channel. You and Dungeon Craft have helped me find a great additional hobby to D&D and improved my games immensely.

[@ouroboros6125]

Cutting board is a good idea. I used my family's handcrafted 1627 baroque antique art table, passed down through our family for generations. I was to be count or baron through marriage, now I'm disowned living in exile in Romania. When my mom saw the thousands of cutmarks over the carved table's art depiction of the last supper handmade by an esteemed artist from Florence, Italy. She had a heart attack, but used her last piece of willpower to tell me I'm dead to her, kicking me out of the mansion into the cold snow. Life's been a quest ever since. TL;DR Use a cutting board don't ruin your table at home with knife cuts, paint and glue.

[@LonnieMason-zv9zg]

I am retired and am not very crafty, but for some reason, I decided to get into some art and crafts. I sure wish I would've seen this prior to buying so much. I have purchased all the things you talked about (except for the square) and I could cry right now because of the waste I will have as this is "just something to do" for me. You have a very appealing video personality. I ran across some people in videos who talk fast and skip over things I would like to know or see. I'm wondering how I can go back to look at some of your first videos. I think I will be better off following one person rather than so many. Thank you for this. It's perfect for beginners.

[@kelimar3014]

It’s been a while since I bought it, but you can get huge packs of chip board from comic shops sold as backs for bagging and boarding comics. If memory serves it was cheap and since your local I got mine at Galaxy Comics.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

You can also get it at your local retail pharmacies if you ask them to hold on to it for you when they get new signage. The backs of full-size note pads are also handy.

[@garybuettner7920]

Great video. Nice that you’re watching out for the newbies and the general community.

[@dubbydapanda7189]

This wasn't the video that we deserve. This is the video that we need!

[@TheBrokensaintvxvx]

I think the only things that could be added to your list, are masks, protective eyewear, latex gloves, baking soda, and fingernail polish remover. Masks and eyewear if you decide to go the rattle can route for priming, but gloves are infinitely useful if you're clumsy with glue like I am. Gloves will basically ensure that you won't get stuck to your things while you're gluing. Baking soda and a bit of PVA glue makes great looking mounds on terrain if you're trying to create uneven terrain like snow or sand, and fingernail polish is great for removing paint from metal things.

[@TheGrayfrog100]

I teach Music and a few other things, I always say you dont need to buy the most expensive, just the best for you, A photographer said to me when I started the best gear is the gear you have. I love that you tell it as it is, you don't need "Boutique gear" to Make. Epic as always Sir. Kepp up the good work.

[@The_Bat]

The best gear, is the gear you can make full use of, to your best advantage.

[@darlingicarus]

this video is exactly what I needed, oh my gosh 😭 I'm super excited to get into miniature/model building but hugely daunted in terms of what i'd need to get started, and this really helped me narrow it down to the most important things. thank you so much! subscribed and I can't wait to go and watch more of your videos!

[@artistpoet5253]

Oh Man, so true! My kit barely takes up two 16 quart storage tubs. The rest of my work space is overrun with materials, a pile of shame and work space. I have a hand held hot wire cutter too but rarely use it.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

I have a hand-held wire cutter I got from Michael's about a lifetime ago that runs on 2 D-cell batteries. It cuts great, and I have yet to have to replace the first wire. I recently go the Proxxon contour cutter and the transformer, and it is good, but the thicker wire needed to make contours means the heat is lower so the cuts are slower, or if I turn it up enough to get faster cuts, it's easy to lose the bent contour. I've only used it for about 40 minutes since I got it.

[@kylehwilliams]

This is why I subscribed to your channel: making crafting accessable. Thanks for your continuous contributions to the hobby. Happy holidays!

[@thecraftsmansguide1357]

I've seen some whack products people are pushing as hobby starter sets. You nailed it with this, I started with essentially the exact same stuff. I love the blatant honesty that comes across with this no bs video.

[@charlesdobbs7989]

I couldn't agree more my friend! I have watched this channel for quite some time and to be honest you are responsible for getting me back into terrain building. No you don't need all the NAME brand expensive hobby items out there to get started or even to stay in it. Hell I find myself in the local Dollar Tree at least once a week and my hobby room looks like a hoarder lives in it, but I find new and crazy things all the time. I have even caught myself looking at stuff me or my family are about to throw away and I think " I could turn this into such and such." and keep it! I also would like to thank you and Goobertown or as I like to call him the Bob Ross of mini painting and Miniac and so many others for inspiring!!

[@riot_of_flowers725]

Hey man, I know this vid is 2 years old, but I'm just getting into the hobby of painting miniatures, and wanted to branch into terrain, and had a rough idea of some things I would need, but wasnt 100% until I discovered your channel, and just wanted to express my thanks to you. I was pretty much able to get everything you mentioned at Michaels in one go. I also work for a sign shop, so I have access to all sorts of nifty materials. (Foamcore, cardstock, Sintra board, aluminum composite, luan plywood, and plexiglass.) Anyway, again, thanks for everything you do, man!

[@tophisdead]

A cheap nail file was/is handy for me.

[@willmfrank]

Emery Boards! A packets of 20 or so (depending on the brand) can be had at Dollarama or Dollar Tree.

[@willmfrank]

Just came back from Dollarama; got a packet of 36 for $1.25

[@johnsavage7507]

Emery boards work good get em at the dollar store.

[@VidJunkie63]

Another great, and candid, message for the crafting masses. Thank you for taking the time to double-down on this message to those of us getting started ... or those of us that might be wandering around for ideas to gift to that crafter in the family.

[@Wolfgar-jx5kl]

New sub here . After a 12 year hiatus I’m back into painting thanks to my son becoming interested . A lot has changed it seems but a lot is also the same I see. Look forward to watching this channel

[@JacopoSkydweller]

Thanks man. Bit daunting to collect "all the stuff" I thought I needed, watching this video I realized between my wife and I, we already own 80% of this stuff. This is super helpful.

[@alistairoakley898]

I'd add paper towels (as many as you an get your hands on) and old newspaper to cover your worksurface if you're using a communal table. Your spouse/housemates/parents will thank you!

[@nekrataali]

Some other money savers: *1)* With paint, you really only need White, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and metallic Silver. You can mix any color from these 5, including black and bronze. Really, it comes down to saving time as grey, brown, and so on are already mixed so you're not spending time finding the right balance. I'd heavily recommend doing at least one project using a limited palette like this because it will improve your painting and blending skills considerably. There's color theory tutorials all over KZbin. Not Just Mecha has some great ones specifically for hobbyists. *2)* I've found the paper peeled off of poster board is also really useful for making things like fabrics, sails, tents, etc. Simply dunk it in water, shape it around whatever it is you're building, then coat it with several layers of Modge Podge. You can get some great looking shapes and the paper itself is fairly heavy (vs. printer paper), while also being smooth (unlike construction paper). *3)* Sprues! We all have them if we're building any plastic model kits. Styrene sprues should be recycled to build frames for your structures or carved into shapes to imitate things like wood logs or steel beams. There's a lot you can make from recycled sprues, ranging from trenches to Czech hedgehogs.

[@choddere2196]

I agree with you!! I make a lot of models and most of my stuff i make from materials from the dollar stores and every once in a while I buy a little bit better quality materials depending on the build. Also from stuff all around my house like boxes, plastic cups utensils...etc. thank you for this video!!

[@Pippi-Longstocking]

For those of you who are not seeing savvy, your sewing chain nearby will give 40% off coupons if you sign up for emails. Filter those emails until you get that coupon and use that to get a nice cutting mat. Or scissors. Or xacto blade.

[@ryanl2747]

This has got to be the most informative video I've seen on this topic. I've been wanting to get into diorama creation for a while now but it seemed so intimidating. This video does a great job of making the information digestible. Thanks!

[@philipschorr5145]

These may be a bit advanced, but I can't recommend getting a razor saw and some very fine grit sandpaper for the xps foam. I've largely steered clear of making terrain because I kept getting awful cuts in the pink foam with regular box cutters, but when I tried out the razor saw, brother it was like some sort of dark magic. No horrid squeaks, and while it left a rough surface, there wasn't any large chunks that cracked out from said surface. I also found out that 400 grit sand paper will smooth it out fairly well and fairly quickly. So glad I tried em out.

[@WhiteWulfe]

To this day I'm still thankful for you mentioning that particular brand of makeup brush at Dollarama. They've been rather useful tools over the past while, to say the least. I especially like how you mention that even just a small cutting mat is good enough for starting out. While I don't use it for cutting anymore due to it being too small for my projects these days, I still own my original cutting mat - I put it under whatever greenstuff/apoxie sculpt thing I'm working on with a layer of wax paper over that so I can keep most of the mess off of my assembly desk.

[@mastergeebo]

I've been building terrain for 30 years and yeah, I can't think of anything beyond these that is essential. Fantastic list.

[@Squncoin]

I know Apple Barrel is cheap stuff but I kind of prefer it because it's thinner and easier to work with vs the more expensive craft paints.

[@jglasgow19]

Its been about a year of watching you and thanks to your videos I have started crafting and made my own channel. JarodMakes. Thank you so much for showing me something I had that was buried deep down within me. I have painted more in 2020 than I have in my previous 33 years. I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday and a great new year.

[@awesomemanlikeaboss]

An absolute quality video. So helpful to so so many people. I cant stand company's that try to take advantage of people who are ignorant to the ins and outs of hobbies. Thank you for taking the time to create this, I'll be sure to share!

[@stubbz9]

I've found small 4oz bottles of Tacky Glue at the Dollar Tree. Also found a nice framing square at one. Don't forget dollar store super glue and baking soda!

[@st4lsell123]

When i started a few years back, your basics playlist made this hobby easy to buy for, but now all new hobbyist have 1 vid for all. This is an incredible resource and you are the man for putting this all together.

[@eventheoddss]

Mad respect for including four different links for different countries

[@JohnnyBones24]

Successfully mentioning imperial and metric with advantages on both sides and not one bad comment on it? I'm amazed i expected people to lose there minds like they normally do xD Well done great video keep it up Jeremy

[@4hedgesfamily]

I WISH I had known all this years ago. I don't want to think about how many brushes I've demolished. I started will Apple Barrel paint, and it's still my go-to paint, even for miniatures. I have found for some colors that are hard to find or that I use a lot of, like Apple Barrel Territorial Beige, I take my 2 oz. bottle over to Walmart's paint department, and have them mix a pint of cheap paint to match for about 6.00. By the way, you can buy 5 2oz bottles of Apple Barrel for the same price as the larger 4 oz bottle. You get 2 extra ounces of paint for the same price that way.

[@iansharp1543]

Enjoy your break! You deserve it. I hope you and yours have a happy holiday and stay safe!

[@lstormhammer]

Can't go wrong with a good Sharpie marker for laying out your cuts. And it will ever so slightly divot the foam so it's good for free-handing some subtle stacked stone texture.

[@TheGrayfrog100]

A shop called "The Works" in the UK for Basic Supplies is a good place to start.

[@brianartillery]

Definitely. Love the acrylics from there. And the packs of cheap brushes, which aren't rubbish, either. 'The Range' is good for stuff like that, too.

[@mscrockett6827]

We have good old Proper job down our way as well.

[@allenkitching6902]

I use their crafts paints for all my terrain.

[@MerakiPLyhne]

Advice like this is truly gold for newbies, thank you! There are little to no barriers left intact to prevent anyone from starting up. And yeah, a starter kit full of crap can work against a newbie whose skills already aren't where they want them to be, so expecting something "magical" from a starter kit can be a psyche trick that makes newbies leave the hobby before they get over the hard part - making the mistakes we need to learn from. I'm yet to try any of this out (moving, meaning I get a workshop soon! I don't even have a desk right now). This video dropped into my lap at EXACTLY the right time. Thank you universe. And thank you, Black Magic Craft, for this invaluable advice, so generously offered for free. Subscribed!

[@scarletbanana6429]

This video...how to begin. This video was the final straw and now I'm building up my list of things to buy, in order to begin making my own terrain. I started earlier this week when I built a fuel tank for my friends who play Warhammer. So thank you, Jeremy, for being the spark that has ignited my love for the amazing (and expensive) hobby of making terrain.

[@Atmoseeker]

Great stuff! We dont have the easy-peal foamcore board here in Australia, but i've found spraying the paper with methylated spirits and letting it soak in for a few minutes lets it peal off real easy.

[@jonathantillian6528]

And this is why I watch this channel. Thanks!

[@MyklCarlton]

Welcome to Black Mod Podge Craft! Excellent segment, gives folks permission to start crafting without a heavier investment in tools.

[@MyklCarlton]

Sandpaper?

[@mszoomy]

$🌳 has nice cutting mats but they're a little small (9x7 inches) they also have disposable cutting mats in the kitchen section, these are 11x14 inches but very thin, flexible plastic. These work great for protecting your work surface from paint, glue and stuff, you can cut on them but they aren't meant for heavy cutting use, they're meant to be disposable but resin, glue and paint comes right off. You can also cut these mats easily with sciccors or an exacto type knife, I've used them to make stencils and to give structure to builds. I highly recommend them. Also, $🌳 has these packs of small containers that work great for storing custom paint colors that you mixed for a job, the lids fit really tight so your paint doesn't dry out. Have a great holiday with family & friends, see ya next year!

[@nathaiellaughton7569]

I've watched your videos for a while now and you're the reason I had the knowledge and belief to build my own tiles for my d&d group and I love the hobby. I'm about to build a ship for the current campaign (biggest build so far) and its all thanks your videos, cheers. Hope you have a great holiday.

[@lisaleone2296]

Home Depot and Lowes both sell the XPS foam in 1" thick 2x2 foot sheets for about $6-7, albeit different brands. Home Depot has the pink Owens Corning, Lowes has the green and I forget the brand name. Both work equally well. You'll usually find the 2x2's on endcaps or aisle displays rather than with the full sheets. It's cheaper to get the sheets and cut them, if you can fit them in your car, but I will often grab the 2x2's for the convenience (and I'm often picking up 2x2's of MDF and other wood). Also, having a hotwire table is nice once you really get into the hobby, but it isn't a magic pill. You still need to do a "rough cut" to get the sheet down to a size that can fit on the table, and you have to practice. Do a few smaller cuts first to get a feel for/remind yourself how much pressure you need, and make sure there is ample clearance around the table to be able to push larger pieces through steadily in one shot. Hesitation marks can sometimes be salvaged, like if you intended to rough up the edges anyway, but most people buy the table specifically for smooth cuts so not getting a smooth cut can be really frustrating.

[@demetrinight5924]

Always great to refresh your basics. It's a good reminder that anyone can start this hobby with less than $20 of supplies.

[@zarathudoo]

Thanks for pushing me past the tipping point with this vid. Started with the good knife, ended up with so much more. Never believed the local Dollar Tree would be so useful.

[@Dyscrazia]

Nice response video, and appreciate your message here. You've always been a voice of reason in the World of Fancy & Expensive Crafting Items.

[@lisaleone2296]

I would add toothpicks which are great for holding foam together, texturing, and getting glue/paint into and out of small areas.

[@MorseB]

One small upgrade I'd suggest is a proper cutting ruler. They have a much thicker edge to help your knife slide along. They also have rubber on the bottom that keeps your material/ruler from sliding around when cutting. I can't believe how much better it is than a standard metal ruler. Mine even has a flip up finger guard to protect your fingers if the knife slips.

[@fallenhunter7384]

Two thing I would add, one is optional at first, but the 2nd should be started ASAP. 1: Dedicated space, a desk, table, corner, etc. where you can leave projects and supplies. While not required to start, as you can setup anywhere, a place to leave something to dry, or if your stuck just sit and let you thing about is a must. 2: A simple box, placed somewhere you can get at it, it need not be fancy, a cardboard box will work fine.. this Box is to place odd pieces that might just come in handy. Packing inserts, odd bits of materials, etc. Keep this box out and available so you can add to it anytime you find something 'neat'. Having to dig this out of a closet, will most likely mean you bin something rather than save it. Just my thoughts, after more than a few years making stuff for Wargaming, RPGs, Scale trains, and just plain models

[@fredericapanon207]

And a roommate who will not call it "hoarding". * sigh *

[@tjwblake]

I found a PVA brand called Jot at Dollartree here in Ontario. I find it works really, really well and it is dirt cheep as an inexpensive option.

[@johnsavage7507]

I can get tacky glue at dollar tree.

[@theboardgamebuff2732]

Great list! I feel like so many people spend way too much money on things they don't need or don't have the skill set/knowledge to use yet. Any hobby you start you should start with the minimum expenditures so you can learn the basics. It is what makes your channel so appealing. It starts at the beginning instead of with $200 static grass applicators and such. Great video. I hope this becomes a pinned video on many hobby forums because it is a wonderful resource for someone looking to get started in the hobby. Great job!

[@dongeonmaster8547]

Black Magic Craft, I found your channel a while back and I love it. I recently found the channel Dungeon Craft hosted by Professor Dungeon Master and in one of his videos, Dungeon Design: Caves of Carnage 2: The Orc Lair! (EP. 68), he was recommending your channel. I didn't know if you were aware of the shout out. You both have great content and if your other viewers are anything like me where D&D is concerned, and I suspect they are, I think they would also love his channel.

[@goddessinaritaoist2970]

I was referred to this page when trying to make those winged tips you see on the roofs of Oriental or Chinese pagodas and castles. I have a doll house that I want to add some winged tips on. I am converting a calico critters doll house into a cool Asian style home. Id love to see a video on making an Asian home with a fancy roof!

[@HammerandPipe]

Excellent video. Id add that folk art metallics and color change are a great investment too. Solid paint for the price.

[@michaeltuite5510]

Thanks for this. your tips are always amazing. I started in the hobby (mostly painting minis) by following your how to guides.

[@ElNick09]

This channel is just the best. Top notch advice. Thanks man.

[@warbanda]

Thanks, you really show how available and easy our hobby can be. Hi from Ukraine

[@bboysmalltown666]

Bmc I just wanted to let you know that your videos were what got me interested in this hobby 3 years ago. Just last week I got my proxxon because if you and I just wanted to say thank you for changing my life 😅

[@GregStanton.]

no dollar tree here in quebec unfortunately...but to my surprise, my local dedicated craft and hobby store stocks Readi Board and i was ecstatic to see the box sitting next to the cash register!

[@juliehamel8330]

There's Elmer's foamcore in Dollaramas in Quebec which is also easy peal. The foam is a bit less nice than Readyboard but still works nice. Good crafting to my my fellow Fleur de Lys crafters. 😘💙

[@GregStanton.]

@@juliehamel8330 thanks for the heads up! if im ever at the dollarama i'll take a look. i picked up a decent stash from the hobby store last time so i'm set for now! gotta support the little guys as well!

[@gettingpolitical]

You had me at the apple barrel paints. My favorite matte paints are from apple barrel, the cost can't be beat. 16oz matte paints for 5.00 on Amazon, they look great and I love em.

[@MirehManuh]

thanks to your videos i have made my first few terrain pieces albeit made from recycled materials and based with crushed egg shells from a former art project in school

[@testpattern7186]

The aliminium foil ball for texturing is an incredible idea, I'm about to try it right now.

[@Fox01313]

Great video! Been getting into terrain crafting more & surprised at how many useful items are now at Dollar Tree stores for us to use.

[@brianartillery]

Very useful video. I'm definitely with you on the subject of scissors, by the way. My favourite, and most used pair cost me nothing. I found them lying in the middle of a road as I cycled to work one day. Brand new hairdressing scissors, with the external finger rest. Sharp enough to shave with. Never let me down. I use a stainless steel OLFA box cutter. What a brilliant tool. It feels quality in the hand.

[@mikepindara8478]

I've been watching your videos for at least a year now, and this was the perfect way to get me out of just Minis, and into building some terrain for myself.

[@FHangya]

I've literally started 5 days ago and I only have a box cutter, exacto(r?) knife, and pva glue ^^ Inspired by you as well! Thanks so much for your hard work!

[@cabeskywalker4346]

Popsicle sticks are also great imo. I know it often doesn't look like in-scale wood, but if you don't care much about that you can make a lot of good looking stuff out of it

[@willmfrank]

Wooden coffee stirrers are also good; like popsicle sticks, but smaller and thinner.