Building Your Dream Shed: 14 Free Plans for Every Size and Budget
In the quest to create the perfect outdoor storage solution, building your own shed is a rewarding DIY project. Whether you need a space to organize tools, store gardening equipment, protect outdoor furniture, or cultivate plants, a shed can serve various purposes in your yard. With a plethora of sizes ranging from small 6×3 ft. structures to larger 16×20 ft. designs, you can tailor your shed to fit your available space and specific needs.
The Beauty of DIY Shed Building
When you embark on the journey of constructing your shed, you have the freedom to customize it to your liking. From choosing the materials to deciding on the layout, every aspect of the shed reflects your personal touch. Plus, building your shed is often more cost-effective than purchasing one, as you only pay for materials rather than labor costs.
Embarking on a shed-building project can seem daunting, but fear not! We’ve compiled a list of 14 free shed plans that cater to various sizes and budgets, making it easier for you to kick off your DIY shed construction endeavor.
Inexpensive DIY Shed
From Family Handyman
Looking to build a charming shed without breaking the bank? This plan is perfect for those on a budget. Featuring an attractive design with arched windows and a custom door, this shed is ideal for a potting or gardening space. With detailed directions and illustrations, constructing your shed on a tight budget is a breeze.
How to Build an Inexpensive DIY Shed from Family Handyman
Small Cedar Fence Picket Storage Shed
From Ana White
For those with limited yard space, this 6×3 ft. small shed is a perfect fit. Using cedar fence pickets, this budget-friendly shed costs around $250 to build. Ana White provides a comprehensive plan with a shopping list, tool list, diagrams, and plenty of project photos to guide you through the construction process.
Small Cedar Fence Picket Storage Shed from Ana White
Garden Closet Storage Shed Plan
From Family Handyman
If you’re in need of a compact storage solution, this free shed plan for a garden closet-sized shed is the ideal choice. Perfect for storing basic lawn equipment or gardening tools, this plan comes with a tools and materials list, step-by-step directions, diagrams, and ample pictures to assist you in building your mini shed.
Garden Closet Storage Shed Plan from Family Handyman
Narrow Backyard Shed Plan
From BuildEazy
This 7×4 ft. shed plan is designed for narrow backyard spaces, offering ample room for tools and small outdoor furniture. With a rustic look and easy-to-follow instructions, you can construct this mighty shed with the help of a parts list, blueprints, and detailed guidance.
Narrow Backyard Shed Plan from BuildEazy
Gambrel Style Free Storage Shed Plan
From Construct101
With a classic barn door look, this 10×12 ft. Gambrel storage shed provides plenty of space for lawn equipment and outdoor furniture. Featuring a complete material list, this plan is so straightforward that you can complete the shed over a weekend.
Gambrel Style Free Storage Shed Plan from Construct101
Drive-Thru Backyard Shed
From Extreme How-To
If you prioritize DIY lawn care, this 8×11 ft. backyard shed is a perfect solution. You can conveniently drive your riding lawn mower right into the shed, thanks to its footprint that is longer than it is wide. Complete with illustrations and color photos, this timeless gambrel shed with barn doors is ideal for any backyard.
Drive-Thru Backyard Shed from Extreme How-To
Gabled Garden Shed Plan
From The Engineered Wood Association
For those looking for a beautifully designed shed with a potting area inside, this 8×10 ft. gabled garden shed is a delightful choice. With the option to add a wrap-around deck for extra space, this plan offers 80 square feet of work and storage space. While you need to register for free to download the plan, you’ll gain access to the material list and plan as PDF files.
Gabled 8×10 Garden Shed Plan from APA
Free Storage Shed Plan
From BuildEazy
This 8×10 ft. storage shed plan from BuildEazy provides everything you need to build a simple yet efficient storage solution for your yard. With a straightforward floor plan, this shed is perfect for storing tools and lawn equipment without any fuss.
8×10 Free Storage Shed Plan from BuildEazy
Tudor-Style Garden Shed Plan
From BuildEazy
Bring a touch of storybook charm to your yard with this comprehensive plan for an 8×7 ft. Tudor-style garden shed. Resembling a cottage, this shed is perfect for those who want a visually appealing structure. If you prefer a larger version, plans are also available for a 10×10 size.
8×7 Tudor-Style Garden Shed Plan from BuildEazy
Free Plan for a Simple Garden Shed
From Mother Earth News
This free shed plan offers a simple 8×6 ft. garden shed that can be built with basic carpentry skills. An affordable solution for storing yard equipment, sports gear, or garden tools, this plan comes with detailed directions, a materials list, and blueprints for easy construction.
Free Plan for a Simple Garden Shed from Mother Earth News
Board-And-Batten Shed Plans
From BuildEazy
With a 7×8 ft. board-and-batten shed plan, you can create a sturdy outdoor structure for your storage needs. This plan includes a parts list, step-by-step instructions, and diagrams to guide you through the build. Featuring nine total steps, this shed plan is easy to follow and execute.
7×8 Board-And-Batten Shed Plans from BuildEazy
Small Outdoor Shed/Smokehouse
From Ana White
This 4×2 ft. shed plan is versatile, serving as either a small shed for garden tools or a smokehouse for your culinary adventures. Ana White provides tips, color photos, shopping lists, tool lists, cut lists, diagrams, and step-by-step building instructions to aid in the construction process.
Small Outdoor Shed/Smokehouse from Ana White
Gable Style Free Shed Plan
From MyBackyardPlans
This portable 8×8 ft. Gable storage shed plan is built on a skid foundation, allowing for easy relocation in the future. With illustrated pictures for each step and a complete material and cutting list, this shed plan is straightforward and user-friendly.
Gable Style Free Shed Plan from My Backyard Plans
Lean-to Shed Plan
From Construct101
Looking for a shed with ample room for equipment and storage? This 10×12 ft. lean-to shed plan offers plenty of space for all your needs. With a detailed PDF download containing all the information you need, including materials lists and measurements, this plan simplifies the shed construction process.
Large 10×12 Lean-to Shed Plan from Construct101
Conclusion
With an array of free shed plans at your disposal, building your dream shed is within reach. Whether you’re aiming for a small, budget-friendly structure or a larger, more elaborate design, these plans cater to every size and budget. By harnessing your DIY skills and following the detailed instructions provided in each plan, you can create a personalized outdoor storage solution that suits your needs and enhances your yard’s functionality.
Remember, the cost to build a shed is primarily influenced by the materials and size of the structure. With an average cost of $40 to $75 per square foot for shed construction, opting for a simple design with minimal frills can significantly reduce expenses. While prefab sheds offer convenience, building your shed allows you to infuse your personality and creativity into the project.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your tools, and embark on the journey of building your very own shed. It’s a rewarding experience that not only adds functionality to your yard but also showcases your craftsmanship and creativity. Happy building!
