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How many obsidian blocks do you need?
| Frame | Obsidian needed | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Smallest frame, corners omitted | 10 | When conserving obsidian |
| Full rectangular frame | 14 | When you want the complete outline |
Minecraft’s official guide describes the smallest frame as two blocks across the top and bottom, with three blocks on each side. Counting the outline gives 14 blocks; leaving out the four corners reduces the total to 10.
Can you leave the corners out?
Yes. The four corner blocks are not needed for the smallest standard frame described in Minecraft’s guide. The opening remains 2 blocks wide by 3 blocks high whether you use the 10-block frame or build all four corners for a 14-block frame. Minecraft’s Feedback entry also describes the traditional frame as 14 obsidian around a 2-by-3 portal area.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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How do you activate the frame?
- Build the frame with the 2-by-3 opening inside it, leaving out the corners if you are using 10 obsidian.
- Use flint and steel on the frame to light it and activate the portal.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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