Framed Expanded
Building in Minecraft is an art form, and the Framed Blocks mod has long been a favorite tool for creators who want to break free from the standard block grid. It allows you to apply the texture of almost any block to slopes, slabs, and other custom shapes. But there has always been one frustrating limitation: glass. Transparent blocks from other mods simply wouldn't work inside those frames, leaving your modern builds and futuristic windows looking incomplete. That is where Framed Expanded comes in, a clever datapack that bridges the gap between your favorite glass mods and the Framed Blocks system.
What Does Framed Expanded Do?
At its core, Framed Expanded is a datapack designed to extend the functionality of the Framed Blocks mod. It specifically targets the incompatibility with transparent blocks, allowing you to use a wide variety of modded glass inside Framed Blocks. This means you can finally create sloped, framed, and custom-shaped windows using the beautiful glass textures from other mods, adding a new level of detail to your builds. Instead of being limited to vanilla glass, you can now frame the intricate patterns from Chipped or the sleek, futuristic panels from Applied Energistics 2.
Supported Mods and Glass Types
The datapack currently integrates seamlessly with several popular mods, and the list is growing based on community feedback. As of now, you can use glass from the following mods inside your Framed Blocks:
- Chipped – Every variant of glass from this massive decoration mod is supported, from cobblestone glass to ornate stained glass.
- Applied Energistics 2 – The quartz glass and vibrant smart glass from this tech mod can now be framed for your ME network rooms.
- Create: Crystal Clear – The beautiful, clear glass casings from the Create mod are fully compatible, perfect for your moving contraptions.
The creator is actively taking suggestions for additional modded glass blocks. If you have a favorite mod that adds unique glass, leaving a comment on the project page might see it included in a future update. This community-driven approach ensures the datapack evolves to meet the needs of builders.
How to Install Framed Expanded
Since this is a datapack and not a traditional mod, the installation process is slightly different. You do not need a mod loader like Forge or Fabric for the datapack itself, but you must have the Framed Blocks mod installed. Here is how to install Framed Expanded for Minecraft:
- Ensure you are running a compatible version of Minecraft Java Edition, typically 1.20.1 or newer, with the Framed Blocks mod already installed.
- Download the Framed Expanded datapack file. It will be a
.zipfile. - Navigate to your Minecraft world folder. This is usually found in
.minecraft/saves/YourWorldName. - Open the
datapacksfolder inside your world folder. If it doesn't exist, create it. - Place the downloaded
.zipfile into thedatapacksfolder. Do not unzip it. - Launch Minecraft, enter your world, and type
/reloadto activate the datapack.
Alternatively, if you use a mod like Global Packs, you can place the datapack in the global datapacks folder to have it automatically applied to all worlds. This is a great time-saver for players who frequently start new projects.
Compatibility and Requirements
Framed Expanded is designed for Minecraft Java Edition and works with the latest versions of the Framed Blocks mod. It is a datapack, so it does not require any additional mod loaders beyond what you already use for the base mod. The datapack is lightweight and only adds the necessary recipe and tag adjustments to make the glass blocks from supported mods function as valid inputs for Framed Blocks. This means it has virtually no impact on game performance. For those who enjoy a streamlined modding experience, the foxygame.net launcher offers a convenient way to manage your modded instances. With its built-in add-on catalog, you can locate Framed Expanded and install it directly into your game profile, ensuring that all version dependencies are automatically satisfied without the need to manually move files.
Why Use Framed Expanded?
If you have ever tried to build a modern house with sloped windows or a sci-fi base with framed glass panels, you know the struggle. Without this datapack, you are forced to use vanilla glass, which often clashes with the aesthetic of modded blocks. Framed Expanded for Minecraft solves this by unlocking the full potential of the Framed Blocks mod. It is a must-have for any builder who values consistency and detail. The datapack is also open-source under the GNU General Public License, aligning with the spirit of the mods it supports.
Getting the Most Out of Your Builds
Once installed, using the datapack is intuitive. Simply craft a Framed Block as usual, then right-click it with your chosen modded glass. The block will instantly take on the texture while retaining its shape. This opens up endless possibilities for windows, skylights, and decorative elements. Whether you are constructing a futuristic city with Create mod machinery or a magical tower with Chipped glass, the visual consistency will elevate your project. The community around this datapack is active, so if you want to see support for glass from mods like Biomes O' Plenty or Twilight Forest, leaving a suggestion is the best way to make it happen.
Conclusion
Framed Expanded is a small but transformative addition to any modded Minecraft world. It fills a specific gap that builders have been working around for years, and it does so elegantly. The installation is straightforward, the compatibility list is growing, and the results are immediately visible in your builds. If you are ready to take your Framed Blocks to the next level, download Framed Expanded today and start framing every piece of glass in your world.