The Best Free Plans for Your DIY Backyard Projects
Whether you’re trying to update your porch or patio or have some garden updates planned, your DIY projects can be made a lot easier with simple build plans. Having dimensions and scale will help you purchase the right amount of lumber, and most plans also offer hardware. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite build plans for you – and they’re free, too.
Chairs
Your yard, deck or patio can always be made more comfortable with the help of good chairs. If you want a modern look, you can try this set of plans from The Creative Mom on Kreg. This project plan includes detailed assembly drawings, materials list, cut list and instructions. Although it says this is a simple project, it does require the use of a saw , a pocket hole jig , and some other measuring and marking tools. If you want a chair that doesn’t need cushions, you can try this chair from Ana White. These plans are also accompanied by detailed assembly drawings, materials list, cut list and instructions; You can also print a PDF outlining the different steps so you don’t have to unplug your phone or tablet while you work.
Benches and couches
Installing a few places for gatherings or for napping can enhance your outdoor space. This simple 2×4 bench from Construct 101 is a project you can probably complete in a day. It comes with assembly drawings, materials and cut lists, as well as step-by-step instructions with illustrations. The only downside to the materials list is that it tells you the number of boxes of screws you will need, not the number of screws. Be sure to double check that the count is correct before heading to the hardware store. There is also a 2×6 incline bench plan from Rogue Engineer that comes with drawings, materials and tools list, and illustrated instructions. If you prefer a sofa over a bench, you can try this outdoor sofa from Angela Marie Made. There are photos, a list of materials, detailed instructions and a link to a video tutorial. Additionally, the author posts regular updates on how to find the right pillows for your DIY sofa project.
Porch swing
This porch swing from Plank and Pillow comes with a materials and tools list, plans and detailed instructions. A crib mattress is used as a pillow, making this a large and comfortable swing. You can also try the simpler swing benches from Yellow Brick Home. These plans come with detailed photographs, instructions, and a list of tools and materials. When planning a porch swing, it’s important to consider weight and proper hanging points to avoid damaging the porch (or damaging the porch swing).
decks
To build a deck, you’ll need to be sure to check the zoning regulations, and you’ll likely need to dig the foundations as well. They require a higher level of skill than furniture making projects, but if you have some experience, it can be a DIY project. These plans from Decks.com are a good source of detailed instructions. The plans include material lists, instructions, drawings and specifications that can be downloaded. You can customize the size of your deck and get plans that fit your specific space.
How to Recognize Good Build Plans
A good set of plans will contain detailed diagrams and illustrations or photographs with measurements. In addition, lists of materials and tools, as well as instructions, will be helpful. Look for plans that contain not only finished measurements, but also dimensions for each cut, a list of cuts, and an overview of how to make cuts from the lumber included in the materials list. If there is no list of materials, you can easily calculate what you will need based on the included dimensions and drawings. If the plans don’t have this information, chances are the instructions aren’t very good.