Table of Contents
Who this is for: Minecraft players wanting to access the End dimension for the first time or those struggling with portal activation.
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Finding End Portal Frames in Strongholds
The most common way to create an end portal is by locating a stronghold, which naturally generates with an incomplete end portal room. Use Eyes of Ender to track down a stronghold – throw them into the air and follow their trajectory. They’ll lead you to the nearest stronghold entrance, usually found 600-1200 blocks from your spawn point.
Once inside the stronghold, explore the stone brick corridors until you find the portal room. It contains a 3×3 frame made of end portal frame blocks, but most of the Eye of Ender slots will be empty.
Completing the Portal with Eyes of Ender
You’ll need up to 12 Eyes of Ender to fill all the frame slots. Each eye has a 10% chance of breaking when used, so bring extras. Right-click on each empty frame block while holding an Eye of Ender – you’ll see it pop into place with a satisfying sound.
The tricky part is orientation. Each frame block must face inward toward the center of the portal. If you place them incorrectly, the portal won’t activate even with all 12 eyes inserted.
Creative Mode Portal Building
In Creative mode, you can build an end portal from scratch using end portal frame blocks. Arrange them in a 3×3 square, leaving the center empty. The key is ensuring all frame blocks face the same direction – toward the portal’s center.
Place the frames by standing inside the 3×3 area and placing blocks outward. This ensures proper orientation. Then add Eyes of Ender to each frame, and the portal should activate immediately with its distinctive starry appearance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Portal frame orientation causes most failures. If your portal isn’t working, break and replace the frames while standing in the center. Also, make sure you’re not missing any Eyes of Ender – even one empty slot prevents activation.
Some players forget that end portal frames are only obtainable in Creative mode or through commands. In Survival, you must find a naturally generated stronghold portal.
Ready to explore more building techniques and portal mechanics? Check out our comprehensive collection of Minecraft guides and tutorials.
TL;DR
Find a stronghold using Eyes of Ender, locate the portal room, and fill all 12 frame slots with Eyes of Ender while ensuring proper block orientation.
