I have an Imperial Sword that I've improved to "Fine" quality. I'd like to improve it again, but I'm only level 20 Smithing, and I receive a message saying my level isn't high enough to improve the sword further.

Is Imperial weaponry considered Steel, Iron, etc.? Or is it independent of those?

At what level can I improve Imperial weapons past "Fine"? Or do I need the first Perk in the Smithing perk tree, which allows for improving/crafting Steel before I can even attempt this?

Many thanks in advance!

I also got stuck with a Steel Sword at Fine.

The guide says level 0-19 is Fine. My Smithing is at level 21, and I have the first Perk for Steel weapons. It says Superior is 20-39. If I'm at 21, what gives?

Or are those numbers for creating those items? If so, how do I determine improving weapons that I already have?

Unless you can only improve items that you created yourself?? Maybe that's what the stats indicate?

Confused!

The guide is wrong. Superior (with perk for that material) starts at 22.

http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Skyrim:Smithing

Ahhh. Thanks so much! I forgot about UESP. That clears up a lot. Thanks again. It's appreciated!

Yeah -Yeah, great site. A little slow on the updating this time around due to the delayed Creation Kit (grumble grumble) but still the best resource out there.