Our standard
Start with the job you need the tool to do, not the longest feature list.— Ted Plans DIY
Featured builds
Project guides by build type
Workbenches
Workbench builds
Plans compare benchtop, freestanding, and wall-mounted layouts against available floor space, required tool access, and the skill each design demands. Material notes explain where lumber grade and fastener choice change the result.
Storage
Storage unit builds
Shelving and cabinet guides weigh panel thickness, joinery options, and load ratings against the cuts a standard saw and clamp setup can handle. Each plan lists the hardware needed before any stock is bought.
Outdoor
Outdoor structure builds
Planters, raised beds, and simple sheds are compared on weather-resistant materials, footing methods, and the tools needed for accurate cuts. Trade-offs between treated and untreated stock are stated plainly.
Planning sequence
Four stages before you buy stock
01
Check dimensions
Measure the workspace, doorways, and the finished footprint first so the plan fits the room it will live in.
02
Confirm tool access
List the saws, drills, and clamps you own, then flag any cut that needs a tool you would have to borrow or buy.
03
Break down materials
Turn the plan into a cut list with stock sizes, and note where a slightly larger board avoids waste.
04
Select hardware
Compare fasteners, hinges, and brackets by load rating and finish, and record the trade-off behind each choice.