Beginner's Guide to Backyard Building Simple Step-by-Step Instructions for Constructing Your Own Shed, Studio, or Tiny House

by Mothes, Lee

• ISBN13: 9781635869606
• ISBN10: 1635869609
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2026-05-05
• Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC
• More Book Details
• Purchase Benefits

Summary

Design and build a simple backyard structure—from a basic garden shed or chicken coop to a fully finished tiny house—even if you've never built anything before!

In this inspiring beginner's guide to building, author Lee Mothes illustrates the entire process from start to finish, beginning with site evaluation and ending with a finished building. Using his own detailed drawings and clear step-by-step instructions, Mothes shows how to:

• Build one small (6ʹ x 8ʹ) structure—suitable for use as a workshop, studio, garden shed, playhouse, or chicken coop.
• Use that basic knowledge to build a more permanent structure, such as a tiny cabin, granny flat, or home office.
• Modify the structure to suit your needs and location by adding a loft, moving doors or windows, changing the roof pitch, or adding rooms.

You’ll end up with an attractive, functional building, as well as construction skills you can use for a lifetime.

Author Biography

Lee Mothes is a carpenter, artist, art teacher, and the author of Keep Out! He studied architectural design, has worked as a full-time carpenter, and has taught hands-on carpentry courses. He lives in Kaukauna, Wisconsin. 

Table of Contents

Introduction
Part 1: Getting Ready to Build
Chapter 1: Tools and Techniques
Chapter 2: Making Plans and Finding Materials

Part 2: Building a Simple Structure
Chapter 3: Building the Foundation and Floor
​Chapter 4: Framing the Walls and Roof
​Chapter 5: Finishing
​Chapter 6: Building It Bigger and Better
​Chapter 7: Making It Your Own

Part 3: Building a Backyard Retreat
​Chapter 8: Planning
​Chapter 9: Building the Foundation, Sills, and Floor
​Chapter 10: Building the Walls
​Chapter 11: Building the Roof
​Chapter 12: Finishing Up

Glossary
Index