The Dragonborn initially has no knowledge of enchantments. However, the desired amount can only be modified by using a different type of soul gem. Unlike weapons, armor/apparel enchantments are permanent and do not require recharging. Muffle and Waterbreathing, being all-or-nothing effects, are not dependent on the size of soul gem used, so a petty soul would do as well as a grand. Larger soul gems create greater magnitude effects.
If an enchanted weapon or artifact weapon does not have the full amount, a "Charge" option will appear in the weapon inventory, unless the item is fully charged. Once depleted, a message on the top left of the screen will say "Your item has insufficient charge." The enchanting meter will appear either above the Dragonborn's Stamina or Magicka bar. Soul Gems, or the perk Soul Siphon, can be used to recharge depleted enchantments. Larger soul gems result in more charges on the enchantment, allowing for more strikes before the charge is depleted.
There is even one in Sinderion's Field Laboratory in Blackreach. Most houses which the Dragonborn can buy, with the exception of Breezehome in Whiterun, can be equipped with an arcane enchanter. They are also found in many locations that feature humanoid, magic-using enemies such as Necromancers, Vampires, and Mages. Press the Craft key to create the enchanted item.Īrcane Enchanters can be found in all major cities, typically in the Jarl's Palace or Longhouse, in the court wizard's quarters. If a lesser gem is selected, the corresponding lesser bonus will be displayed. On the last tab, select a filled soul gem from the list. Note that any numerical bonuses listed in this tab are the maximum, as if a grand soul was used. The next tab lists the known enchantments, select the desired one, or if the Extra Effect perk has been obtained, two may be selected. The next tab lists objects capable of being enchanted.
Objects with already known enchantments are greyed out. Selecting objects here will destroy them and add their enchantment to the Dragonborn's list of known enchantments. The first tab is the Disenchant screen which lists all of the disenchantable objects the Dragonborn has in inventory. The enchanting menu will appear, with four tabs. To enchant an object, have that object and a filled soul gem in inventory and then activate an Arcane Enchanter. These include the Amulet of the Gargoyle (in Dawnguard), Horksbane (from Dragonborn), the Silver Sword, Silver Greatsword, Wuuthrad, and the Longhammer. There are certain items that can be enchanted even though they already have an enchantment. The Law of the Firsts states that once an item is enchanted, it can not be enchanted again and can not accept another enchantment. The act of enchanting requires an item with no existing enchantments, a filled soul gem, knowledge of an enchantment, and the use of an arcane enchanter. "Don't suppose you'd enchant my sword? Dull old blade could barely cut butter." ― Hold Guard