The 4x2 ft. shed plans include tips, color photos, a shopping list, a tool list, a cut list, diagrams, and step-by-step building instructions. Small Outdoor Shed/Smokehouse from Ana White.

In the case of this shed, pressure-treated 4-by-4s function in a similar way, but in short lengths — just enough to compensate for any variation in the shape of the ground (see the plans).

Just 12.71 inches of rain falls annually in Tucson, Ariz. To collect as much of it as possible, Ben Lepley used reclaimed lumber to build a 400-square-foot water-storage shed in his parents' yard.

A 10x12-ft. shed is a near-perfect size—if you have a shed or barn larger than 14x20 ft., partition off the interior to keep half for storage. If the shed is close to your house, it’s easier ...