Stardew Valley enthusiasts engage in various activities within the game, utilizing an array of tools to assist in mining, battling, and farming. While tools in Stardew Valley are durable and do not break, their effectiveness is limited by quality.
As players progress, they may outgrow their basic tools, prompting the need for upgrades. This guide serves as a valuable resource for players looking to unlock enhanced abilities through tool upgrades.
Updated by Christina Roffe on March 27, 2024: Each Stardew Valley update presents opportunities for more tool upgrades. Following the Version 1.6 update, players can now upgrade the Copper Pan, obtained from Willy after clearing the Glittering Boulder near the Mines. This article includes details on all available upgrades for the Copper Pan and information on other upgradable items like the Fishing Rod and Trash Can. Additional links provide further insights into Stardew Valley's latest updates.
Where to Upgrade Tools
Within the town, players can explore various locations and interact with NPCs. While JojaMart and Pierre’s offer supplies, tool upgrades are exclusively available at The Blacksmith.
Located in the southeast corner across the river from the main town area, Clint’s Blacksmith shop operates from 9am to 4pm on most days. Interacting with Clint during these hours grants access to tool upgrades.
When to Upgrade Tools
Tools in Stardew Valley can be upgraded a total of four times by visiting the Blacksmith:
- Watering Can
- Hoe
- Pickaxe
- Axe
- Pan
- Trash Can
Upgrades involve progressing from basic to copper, steel, gold, and finally, iridium levels. Each upgrade demands five bars of specific ore and increasing amounts of gold. While Clint sells ore and coal, mining in Stardew Valley is a more cost-effective option.
Players should consider upgrading tools when faced with unbreakable obstacles or when the current tool's efficiency no longer aligns with its usage frequency. Since tool upgrades take two in-game days, planning ahead is crucial.
For instance, players planning to upgrade the watering can for crop watering should check the weather forecast on the television. If rain is predicted the next day, players can give Clint the watering can for upgrades, allowing rain to water crops the following day, and then pick up the upgraded can on the third day for watering.
Upgrade costs vary for the Trash Can, with prices ranging from 1,000 g for Copper to 12,500 g for Iridium. The Fishing Rod upgrade, available at Willy's Shop, has its own requirements.
After upgrading tools, players can enhance them further with enchantments. Refer to an enchantments guide for more details.