A warm welcome for a new player.
Make a comfortable place to begin.
A newcomer needs a view of the board and a chance to ask a small question without interrupting a lecture. Clear enough table space, keep drinks away from the cards and give everyone room to reach a shared piece.
Choose a familiar place.
Creekside Catch begins with the simple idea of filling a basket. Market Pennies has the familiar tension of wanting more than a purse can buy. Patchwork Meadow lets a countryside appear in front of you. A recognisable setting gives the first explanation a gentle starting point.
Let the first round be a welcome.
Make one turn together, then let the next player try. If a rule is forgotten during that learning round, decide kindly as a group how to handle it. There will be plenty of time for a proper rivalry when everyone knows their way around.