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1. Plan one playable layout

Draw a simple battle with two hills, one wood, a road, and a few fields or buildings. Check the rules for how much terrain a game needs before buying supplies.

2. Make the essentials first

Start with a cloth or mat in an unobtrusive ground color. Build low hills and woods with clear footprints, then add road sections. These pieces change movement and sight lines immediately.

3. Use cheap materials where they work

Card offcuts can form field boundaries; foam scraps become hills; sifted fine dirt or sand adds texture. Seal natural material before use and avoid loose material that scatters onto miniatures.

4. Play before expanding

Set up a full game, note which terrain gets moved or blocks figures, and repair those pieces. Add buildings, rivers, and period details only after the basic table works.