I see a lot of roleplay value in giving gnomes a significant tinkering bonus. I wouldn't oppose it at all.
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80/140 Wizard, 80/140 Illusionist, 80/140 Warden, 80/126 Troubador, 73/107 Coercer, 60 Paladin
An enchanter epic weapon without subjugation is like a Buckeyes T-shirt without the colors scarlet and gray.
Don't find yourself fixing things out of fear that you should have fixed out of love.