As a newbie I did think the hammer & shovel for all was a bad flaw. I still do. However, I was determined to try to make the best of things and learn the skills I thought would be best for my characters rp'ing. The generosity of the other gamers made that possible, Not the tools I started out with. I agree that something should be done to change it. So far the best suggestion I read here is the " 48 coins" idea.
But there is a problem with that also, newbies do not necessarily know which items are needed for which crafts such as glassmaking or, tailoring. Most area's are too tough for newbies to venture into right away without assistance. The safest trades initially seems to be lumberjacking and peasantry/farming type skills. Some kind of balance is needed here but I have no recommendations at this time.
Einovindil wrote:what if we wish to become a mage or druid? would you really see a mage or druid mining some coal? Or making weapons?
Sure. Just they are not very devoted to druidism or magic. Also, you have to be a mage to make magical weapons. This does not mean you have to roleplay a mage, but only a runesmith. Someone who uses magic for the things they smith. There are some dwarves like this.