Adding New Abilities

Dungeon Master's Guide v.3.5 (DMG)3.5
Category
Base
Subcategory
Magic

A creator can add new magical abilities to a magic item with no restrictions. The cost to do this is the same as if the item was not magical. Thus, a +1 longsword can be made into a +2 vorpal longsword, with the cost to create it being equal to that of a +2 vorpal sword minus the cost of a +1 sword.

If the item is one that occupies a specific place on a character’s body the cost of adding any additional ability to that item increases by 50%. For example, if a character adds the power to confer invisibility to her ring of protection +2, the cost of adding this ability is the same as for creating a ring of invisibility multiplied by 1.5.

Table: Body Slot Affinities
Body SlotAffinity
Headband, helmetMental improvement, ranged attacks
HatInteraction
PhylacteryMorale, alignment
Eye lenses, gogglesVision
Cloak, cape, mantleTransformation, protection
Amulet, brooch, medallion,
necklace, periapt, scarab
Protection, discernment
RobeMultiple effects
ShirtPhysical improvement
Vest, vestmentClass ability improvement
BracersCombat
BraceletsAllies
GlovesQuickness
GauntletsDestructive power
BeltPhysical improvement
BootsMovement