A ledge shelf, a planter box and a shoe rack are among the easiest first builds: few boards, straight cuts and an afternoon of work. Pick something you will use and read the cut list before you buy.
The best first project is one you can finish in a weekend with a few tools and a single trip to the lumber yard. These ten are ordered from the simplest up. Each one comes from a plan with a shopping list, a cutting diagram and the exact numbers to check as you build, and the times are estimates for a first build.
1. Box Ledge Shelf (free plan)
A clean, hollow ledge shelf that mounts to wall studs. Finished size 36 × 7¼ × 4¼ in. About 1.5–2 hours for a first build, 2 boards to buy. Made from pine, fir or poplar (indoor). Get the free plan.
2. Entryway Coat Rack Shelf
A shelf and hook rail for coats, bags and keys. Finished size 36 × 5½ × 6¼ in. About 1.5–2 hours for a first build, 2 boards to buy. Made from pine, fir or poplar (indoor). See the Entryway Coat Rack Shelf plan.
3. Two-Tier Shoe Rack
Two slatted shelves that keep the entryway clear. Finished size 30 × 12 × 16 in. About 2–3 hours for a first build, 4 boards to buy. Made from pine or fir (indoor). See the Two-Tier Shoe Rack plan.
4. Patio Planter Box
A slatted cedar planter for balconies and patios. Finished size 25½ × 13½ × 12 in. About 2–3 hours for a first build, 5 boards to buy. Made from cedar or exterior-grade pine. See the Patio Planter Box plan.
5. Firewood Rack
A simple 2x4 rack that keeps firewood off the ground. Finished size 48 × 14 × 36 in. About 2–3 hours for a first build, 4 boards to buy. Made from pressure-treated or cedar 2x4. See the Firewood Rack plan.
6. Entryway Bench
A sturdy two-board bench on a simple 2x4 and 1x4 frame. Finished size 36 × 14¾ × 17½ in. About 3–4 hours for a first build, 4 boards to buy. Made from pine, fir or cedar (indoor or covered porch). See the Entryway Bench plan.
7. Side Table
A compact table with a lower shelf for the sofa or bedside. Finished size 18 × 17 × 22 in. About 3–4 hours for a first build, 4 boards to buy. Made from pine, fir or poplar (indoor). See the Side Table plan.
8. Tiered Plant Stand
Three stepped tiers to give every plant its light. Finished size 30 × 24¾ × 30 in. About 3–4 hours for a first build, 7 boards to buy. Made from cedar or exterior-grade pine. See the Tiered Plant Stand plan.
9. Rolling Garage Cart
A three-shelf cart on casters that goes where the job is. Finished size 30 × 19½ × 28½ in. About 3–4 hours for a first build, 10 boards to buy. Made from construction pine or fir. See the Rolling Garage Cart plan.
10. Five-Shelf Bookshelf
A tall bookcase with five shelves, anchored to the wall. Finished size 30 × 11¼ × 60 in. About 4–5 hours for a first build, 6 boards to buy. Made from pine or poplar 1x12, 1x4 and 1x2 (indoor). See the Five-Shelf Bookshelf plan.
How to choose your first project
- Pick something you will use. You will finish it faster if you want it.
- Count the boards. Fewer boards means fewer cuts and a lower cost.
- Look at the tools it needs. Our minimum workshop list covers the basics.
- Read the cut list first. See how to read a cut list and plan your boards before you buy.
- Check it is square as you go. Here is how to check a build is square.
Our plans are modeled and checked in 3D and have not yet been built and tested, so dry-fit before you drive screws, and wear eye and hearing protection.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good first woodworking project?
A small shelf, a planter box or a shoe rack. They use few boards, straight cuts and basic tools, and you can finish them in an afternoon.
How long does a beginner project take?
Our beginner plans estimate between about 1.5 and 7 hours for a first build, depending on the project.
What tools do I need for beginner projects?
A tape measure, speed square, saw, drill/driver, clamps, wood glue, sandpaper and a level cover most of them, plus safety glasses and hearing protection.
All 12 plans in one collection
The Garage Starter Collection has 12 beginner plans, 4 guides and a Start Here guide. One payment of $27, instant download, 14-day money-back guarantee.
See the collection