If they did something similar to fable games where you have to "hit" the sweet spot to craft it maybe more fun and interactive.
Yes I think crafting would be better if it was like the gathering system.

5) Most abilities do suck, also keep note that most abilities DO NOT STACK, when you use one the other fades immediately
You are right MOST do not stack, however, Grandmastery does stack with all the R15 abilities and does not cancel them or itself out.