Easy Backyard Woodworking Ideas You Can Build Yourself

You don’t need a big budget or fancy skills to make your backyard a place you actually enjoy. In fact, some of the best upgrades are the ones you build yourself — and woodworking is a solid way to get started.

Have you ever seen something and thought, “That doesn’t look too hard to make”? Chances are, you’re right. You just need the right idea, a few tools, and a little time on your hands.

This one’s a classic. A good bench gives you a spot to sit and makes your yard look more put together. It’s not hard to build either — a few boards, some screws, and you're on your way. Bonus points if you stain it to match your fence or planters.

Want to grow stuff? Raised beds are great. They make gardening easier on your back, keep things neat, and they’re one of the easiest builds out there. You’ll probably knock out your first one and then immediately want to build three more.

Want to grow stuff? Raised beds are great. They make gardening easier on your back, keep things neat, and they’re one of the easiest builds out there. You’ll probably knock out your first one and then immediately want to build three more.

If you’ve got tools, bikes, or just too much stuff in the garage, a shed can save you. Building one might feel like a big job, but you can find plans that break it down in simple steps. Plus, nothing beats saying, “Yeah, I built that.”

That’s normal. To be honest, the hardest part is often just choosing a plan that makes sense. I came across a massive library of woodworking plans ⇗ — thousands of them — and they’re super detailed. Great for beginners or anyone who doesn’t want to measure twice and still mess it up.

Here are a few other great resources if you’re looking for something specific:

All of these work well alongside TedsWoodworking, especially if you want to dive deeper into a specific type of project or skill. Also download 50 free TedsWoodworkings "done-for-you" plans below.

• Start small — benches or planters are a great first project

• Use outdoor wood if it's staying outside (cedar, redwood, etc.)

• Take your time, and don’t stress if something’s not perfect

You don’t need to start with something huge. A bench, a garden box, or even a birdhouse is enough to get the sawdust flying and build your confidence. With the right guide and a bit of patience, your backyard can become something you're genuinely proud of.

👉 Ready to build? Start with TedsWoodworking here — then explore the rest once you get in the groove.