While not a "system" in the traditional sense, the ability to consistently find and harvest clay is vital for crafting many early-game tools and furniture items in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Unlike wood or stone, clay isn't immediately obvious in its abundance, but with a little know-how, you can ensure a steady supply for your crafting needs.
The primary method for "growing" your clay supply is through diligent rock hitting. Every island starts with a set number of rocks, and each rock can yield several materials, including stone, iron nuggets, and crucially, clay. To maximize your yield, you'll want to hit each rock up to eight times in quick succession. The trick here is to prevent yourself from being knocked back by the recoil.
Here’s how to effectively "farm" clay from rocks:
- Equip a Shovel or Axe: While an axe works, a shovel is generally preferred for its faster swing speed.
- Dig Holes: Before hitting the rock, dig two or three holes directly behind you, forming a barrier. This will prevent your character from being pushed back by the recoil, allowing you to hit the rock repeatedly without interruption.
- Rapidly Hit the Rock: Once the holes are dug, stand in front of the rock and rapidly press 'A' to hit it. Aim to hit it eight times to get the maximum number of materials.
- Collect Materials: After hitting, quickly collect all the dropped materials before they despawn.
Repeat this process daily for all rocks on your island. Remember, rocks reset their material drops each day, so consistent farming will ensure a healthy stock of clay for all your crafting endeavors.