How to Get Smithing Templates in Minecraft 1.20+

🗓️ January 16, 2026✍️ PlannerPDFs⏱️ 5-7 min read

The Trails & Tales update completely changed how Netherite gear is crafted. You can no longer simply combine a Netherite Ingot with Diamond gear. You now require a mandatory item: the Smithing Template.

The Netherite Upgrade Template

This is the most essential template for progression.

  • Location: Bastion Remnants (in the Nether).
  • Chest Type: Treasure Chests (100% chance) and other Bastion chests (~10% chance).
  • Use: Upgrading Diamond Armor/Tools to Netherite on a Smithing Table.

Armor Trim Templates

These are cosmetic templates used to add colored patterns to your armor. There are over 16 different trims found in various structures:

  • Coast Armor Trim: Shipwrecks
  • Sentry Armor Trim: Pillager Outposts
  • Vex Armor Trim: Woodland Mansions
  • Ward Armor Trim: Ancient Cities
  • Silence Armor Trim: Ancient Cities (Very Rare - 1.2% chance!)

How to Duplicate Templates

Smithing templates are consumed upon use! You don't want to find a new one every time. Always duplicate them first.

Recipe: 1 Template + 7 Diamonds + 1 Block of Material (Netherrack for Upgrade, Cobblestone/Sandstone/etc for others).