One type of scrap metal is used for Eternal armor as I recall. Feathers are used in certain scrolls. Leather scraps can be used for leather armor. However, I find that, unlike in 1, the made armor (other then eternal armor) is inferior to the found armor but perhaps equal to the bought armor. If I am correct, you may be out of luck in this aspect of the game. Also, I do not believe all types of crafted things have recipes so one has to experiment. I'd personally rather find all the recipes I need. Can't have everything, though.
