Unlock the Secrets to Getting a Shovel in Animal Crossing

Shovels in Animal Crossing: New Horizons serve multiple purposes, such as digging up fossils, removing tree stumps, and burying pitfall traps.

First, you need to wait for Blathers to arrive on your island for the Flimsy Shovel recipe.

Here's a guide on how to obtain a Shovel in Animal Crossing: New Horizons and tips on using a Shovel.

How to get a Shovel in New Horizons

You can acquire a Shovel by crafting it or purchasing it at Nook's Cranny, but Blathers must first be present on your island.

There are three types of shovels you can craft: the Flimsy Shovel, the standard Shovel, and the Golden Shovel. The Flimsy Shovel can be bought at Nook's Cranny, while other styles can also be purchased for a price.

The Flimsy Shovel is less durable and will break after 30 uses, while the standard Shovel and its variations last longer. Note that shovels remain intact while digging or filling holes but deteriorate when relocating items like flowers or striking rocks.

The different Shovel types and their requirements are as follows:

Flimsy Shovel: 5 Hardwood, Price: 800 Bells

Shovel: 1 Flimsy Shovel, 1 Iron Nugget

Golden Shovel: 1 Shovel, 1 Golden Nugget

Colorful Shovel, Outdoorsy Shovel, and Printed-design Shovel: Price: 2,500 Bells each.

The Golden Shovel is a special tool unlocked by assisting Gulliver 30 times.

How to use a Shovel in New Horizons

Equip the Shovel from your inventory to use it. Walk to the desired spot—be it a crack in the ground or a flower—and press A. Any objects dug up will be added directly to your inventory.

By consuming fruit, you can also dig up and relocate fully grown trees.

That’s all for now! For more tips on Animal Crossing: New Horizons, check out our guides on acquiring a Fishing Rod, using a Slingshot, or obtaining a Net.