Could you quote me a source? I apologize, but so much info has dropped everywhere so it'll take me some time to gather everything. Would love to link sources in the OP. 
http://www.dragonage...multiplayer-faq
How is crafting different between SP and MP?
· Dragon Age multiplayer is about mastering the fight with friends in a party-based adventure, and crafting is a key element of progression. Through crafting, you will be able to create new items that will make you better at fighting. There is some overlap between SP and MP recipes, and some are exclusive to one mode or the other. Crafting also lets you create new armors. If you craft a set of Alchemist Armor, you unlock that character, who can then open up a lot of possibilities on MP missions. You can also craft new armors for characters you already own. They will give your character a new special look but no extra stats. In SP you gather materials through exploration. In MP you salvage items to get them.
Edit And this question.
How do I unlock new characters?
· In Dragon Age multiplayer, changing the party composition with new characters can be the difference between failing and succeeding. You can unlock new characters by crafting their armor. Crafting materials are acquired by salvaging items such as weapons and weapon mods. You may also get a new armor in a chest that you can buy with gold coins. Getting a new character is definitely a goal to be pursued on Dragon Age multiplayer.