Thanks a lot. I'm going pure Mage and I'm not putting anything in alchemy so maybe I'll just sell or store them for now. Also I guess a Mage cannot make anything really useful in forges? I've read about enchanting and it seems sweet. I'll just have to learn what you use (ingredients) for that.
No problem
For enchanting you need to find a weapon or piece of gear with an enchant then Disenchant it at a enchating station (one can be found in Dragonreach Castle in Whiterun). When you disenchant you then learn that enchanting effect and do not need to disenchant an item with that effect again as you have learned it.
For example, you find a Dagger with + 5 Fire damage. You then disenchant it and you have learned the Fire Damage Enchant. If you later find a Bow with Fire damage you cannot disenchant that (as you already know the effect).
You also need a soul gem filled with a soul. Soul gems are common in dungeons and wizards sell them. In order to trap a soul you need the Soul Trap Spell (Conjuration). This can be purchased from the Wizard in Dragonreach in Whiterun. When you face an enermy (beast only, not human, they require a Black Soul Gem) cast the Soul Trap spell on them. You then need to kill them before the time runs out (about 60 sec but may vary, check spell description). If successful and you have a soul gem large enough for the soul then it will be filled. You can then use the filled soul gem for enchanting or recharging magic weapons (like staffs). The soul gem is destroyed in the process.
The tougher the enemy the large the soul and thus the larger the soul gem you need (they come in various sizes like petty, small, common, great and Grand I think).
As mentioned human souls can only be trapped in Black Soul Gems (can count as Greater I think). These are hard to get but maybe found in Necromancer lairs.
When you want to enchant do the following
- Go to Enchanting Station
- Pick a piece of unenchanted gear (say a Hood or ring)
- Select desired Enchant (say + Health)
- Select a filled Soul Gem
- Once all is selected it will show you the strength of the item. (for example + 5 health). You can also rename the item if you wish.
Viola, you are done. Not though enchants will be very weak to start. Spending perks does help here.
You get skill in enchanting by disenchanting or enchanting gear. Also the larger the soul gem the stronger the effect.
Hope this helps