New Guy Tips for Base Building and Gameplay

Hello all!

I'm new to Enshrouded (like 15 to 20 hours). Currently, my main base is a set of 3x3 Hovels with doors and a section dedicated to Crafting and Storage. Needless to say, it is hideous.

My main question is, how do you make nice looking buildings? Is there a recommended milestone to reach?

Also, what gameplay tips do you have? I know to explore everything, keep 10 Lockpicks at all times, keep potions handy, and that Magic Chests are amazing. Other than that though, I am still very new. What tips do you all have?

Thank you for any input!

Edit

I will be real, I only expected one or two comments and expected them to be more negative than positive. Everyone has been active and great here though! A lot of good advice and comments! Thank you all for your input! I appreciate it!

I took some advice about building in an already established area. I now have 3 of my (as of last night) 6 bases. My starting base and still current hovel main base by the Cinder Vault, a base by Westcott, and a base (and future main base) at Fort Kelvin. I am mainly focused on gathering resources now. (Healing Potions, Shroud Potions, Stone, Wood, Dirt, etc.) Just started farming too! Will have to figure out the ins and outs there, but still, so EXCITING! Once I have Fort Kelvin looking half decent I will upload screenshots!