How to Build a Shed
with Rick Arnold

Build a classic shed with digital plans, video instruction, and trade secrets and on-the-job time savers from the pros. This series includes:

3-D shed plans in SketchUp detailed down to the last splinter and complete with builder’s notes.
16 video episodes that document the process from foundation to shingles.
A complete materials list, including Rick’s picks of best time savers.
Excerpts from our best-selling book Building a Shed by Joseph Truini.

Browse the entire episode line-up

Download the Digital Project Plans

UPDATE: Online members can download the digital project plans with complete construction details as a PDF or a SketchUp file so you can customize the plan.

Download the PDF
Download the SketchUp File

	Introduction (Now Playing) Learn the steps involved and the options available for building a high-value shed in a couple of weekends.
	Install a Block Foundation *Watch it Now (free preview)* -** Locate, square, and level your shed foundation quickly using the floor framing as a template.
	Shed Floor Framing Basics Watch it Now - Get your shed off to a good start. Learn how to size, cut, and assemble a square and level floor frame for your shed.
	Building a Gable-End Wall (Part 1 and 2) Watch it Now - While simple to accomplish, this advanced technique of framing and siding a wall before raising is a real time saver.
	Building the Bearing Walls Watch it Now - Learn a valuable wall-building technique that applies to any house as well as this shed.
	Build The Roof (Part 1 and 2) Watch it Now - Learn an easy technique of constructing site-built roof trusses using only a Speed Square, a tape measure, and a straightedge.
	Installing Trim Watch it Now - Watch Rick explain how he uses careful design and a trim-in-place technique to achieve great results.
	Installing Windows and Doors Watch it Now - See how Rick uses a few simple techniques to square windows and doors during installation.
	Installing Lap and Shingle Siding Watch it Now - Learn efficient techniques for keeping reveals even and straight, siding around window and door openings, and siding against trim.
	Install Architectural Shingles Watch it Now - Learn time-saving tricks for handling shingles on a steep roof as well as tips on reducing waste.
	Foundation System Watch it Now -Learn the basics of the most common shed foundations and what to consider when deciding on the right foundation for you.
	Siding Options Watch it Now -There are many options for siding. In this episode, Rick explains some different types of shingle and lap siding.
	Accessorize Your Shed Watch it Now -A ramp and a flower box complete the exterior of the shed. See how to frame a sturdy ramp quickly and assemble a flower box in just a few minutes.
	Shelving and Storage Options Watch it Now -Watch as Rick assembles a planting table, fastens corner shelves, and uses overhead storage space.
	Landscaping Completes the Look Watch it Now -We invited the editors of Fine Gardening to landscape our shed. Watch the experts work some magic to complete the cottage look.
	Behind the Scenes Interviews Join us from the set of Build a Shed and listen to archived interviews with Rick and Mac during the filming of this series.

Rick Arnold

South Kennsington, R.I.

Veteran contractor Rick Arnold is a contributing editor at Fine Homebuilding magazine. He is the author of numerous articles and books on home construction and remodeling. He is a well-known and sought-after speaker and presenter at home shows and building seminars around the country.

In this series, we take you right to the job site, where you can build along with Rick and his helper as they construct a sturdy, attractive backyard shed.

The shed you’ll see Rick build is not a prop in a studio. It’s an actual project, and the construction methods that Rick and his helper demonstrate reflect the best practices of professional builders. You’ll see firsthand what’s involved in locating and leveling the foundation, framing the structure, installing doors and windows, installing siding efficiently, and even landscaping effectively.

In addition to video, you’ll also find complete 3-D plans with Rick’s notes on construction as well as Rick’s Fine Homebuilding article on shed building, a design gallery of great ideas for detailing a shed, and excerpts from The Taunton Press’s best-selling book Building a Shed by Joeseph Truini. We’re also including a collection of how-to articles covering many of the crucial processes involved in building a shed. Written by the best builders in the country, our articles explain in easy-to-understand terms the best practices used by builders across the country. Keep in mind that building codes governing shed construction vary from region to region. Always consult local regulations before starting work. And good luck on your project!

This video also features Mac, the sideburn strutting carpenter’s helper who’s never at a loss for commentary.

Buy the Book:

Building a Shed
Instructions and Plans for Building Four Shed Projects by Joseph Truini.

Buy the book

Buy the e-book

Show Off Your Shed

Have you built a shed that your are especially proud of? Share your work and see what others are doing in the FineHomebuilding.com Project Gallery. Upload pictures and tag them with "Shed".