How to Enchant in Minecraft

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Craft an enchanting table (book + diamonds + obsidian), put an item that is not already enchanted in it with lapis lazuli, and pick one of three offers. Surround the table with 15 bookshelves, each with one block of air or a replaceable block between it and the table, to unlock level 30 offers. A level 30 offer charges only 3 levels and 3 lapis.

What you need

Enchanting table
15 bookshelves for level 30 offers
Lapis lazuli (3 at most per enchantment)
Experience levels (up to 30)
Anvil and enchanted books for targeted enchantments

Step by step

Craft an enchanting table from a book, diamonds and obsidian.
Build the library: bookshelves go next to the table with one block of air (or a replaceable block like snow or grass) between them. Most other blocks, even torches, stop a bookshelf from connecting. A 1-block-high square of bookshelves with an empty space on the perimeter is the simple layout. 15 bookshelves are needed for level 30 enchantments.
Get lapis lazuli and experience levels. You need at least the level requirement of the offer.
Open the table, put the item in the item slot and lapis in the lapis slot. Three offers appear. Hover over one to see one of its enchantments.
Pick an offer. You are charged levels and lapis equal to its lapis requirement: a level 30 offer needs 30 levels but costs only 3 levels and 3 lapis.
To refresh the offers, enchant anything: it changes your enchantment seed, so the possible enchantments change. A cheap way is spending 1 lapis and 1 level on a book or another item.
Treasure enchantments (such as Mending) are not available at the table. Use an anvil and enchanted books for exact enchantments.

Java vs Bedrock

Enchanting works the same table, bookshelf limit and 3-offer system for both editions. Naming the table in an anvil changes the GUI title; the /data CustomName route is Java only.

Versions: Describes the current Java and Bedrock releases. See the edition note above for differences.

Frequently asked questions

How many bookshelves do I need for level 30 enchantments?

15 bookshelves, each with one block of air or a replaceable block between it and the table. Most other blocks, even torches, break the connection.

Why can't I get Mending from the enchanting table?

Mending is a treasure enchantment, and treasure enchantments cannot be obtained through an enchanting table.

How do I reroll the offers?

Enchanting any item changes your enchantment seed and the possible enchantments. A cheap way is spending 1 lapis and 1 level on a book or another item to refresh the list.

Can I enchant an item that is already enchanted?

No. The table only enchants items that are not already enchanted.