Ryan’s Shed Plans to Free & Paid Alternatives
When it comes to building a backyard shed, the right plan makes all the difference. A good shed plan saves you time, money, and frustration. A bad one? You’ll waste weekends on confusing diagrams, missing measurements, and costly mistakes.
That’s why many DIY enthusiasts turn to professional shed plan packages. Among the most popular options is Ryan’s Shed Plans, which boasts over 12,000 detailed woodworking projects. But how does it really stack up against other shed plan programs? Let’s break it down.
What Makes a Good Shed Plan Package?
Before comparing, it’s worth noting what you should look for in a quality shed plan:
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✅ Clear, Step-by-Step Instructions
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✅ Detailed Diagrams & 3D Views
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✅ Materials & Cutting Lists
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✅ Variety of Styles and Sizes
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✅ Beginner-Friendly Yet Pro-Ready
With those criteria in mind, let’s compare.
Ryan’s Shed Plans
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Size of Library: 12,000+ plans covering every shed style imaginable (garden, storage, barn-style, lean-to, and more).
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Clarity: Each plan includes step-by-step instructions, “LEGO-style” assembly guides, and CAD-drawn diagrams.
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Extras: Cutting lists, materials lists, and beginner-friendly explanations.
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Best For: DIYers who want variety, flexibility, and a one-stop resource.
Check out Ryan’s Shed Plans here.
Other Popular Shed Plan Programs
1. Ana White Free Shed Plans
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Pros: Free, creative designs, beginner-friendly.
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Cons: Limited selection, less detail compared to paid programs, fewer advanced shed styles.
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Best For: Casual DIYers who want simple projects without spending money.
2. Family Handyman Shed Plans
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Pros: Professional diagrams, reliable instructions, and practical designs.
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Cons: Limited styles, often sold as individual plans, not cost-effective for multiple projects.
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Best For: Someone who only needs one shed and prefers a trusted household brand.
3. My Outdoor Plans (Free & Paid Options)
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Pros: Offers both free and low-cost shed plans, decent variety.
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Cons: Some plans lack detailed cutting lists or clear step-by-step instructions.
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Best For: Budget-conscious DIYers who are okay with less detail.
4. TedsWoodworking (16,000+ Plans)
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Pros: Massive library of woodworking projects (not just sheds).
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Cons: Overwhelming amount of content, with some designs that feel repetitive.
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Best For: Woodworkers looking for projects beyond sheds, like furniture or small crafts.
Head-to-Head: Ryan’s vs. The Rest
| Feature | Ryan’s Shed Plans | Free Plans (Ana White, My Outdoor Plans) | Family Handyman | TedsWoodworking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| # of Plans | 12,000+ | Limited (10–200) | A handful | 16,000+ (general woodworking) |
| Detail Level | High – CAD drawings, step-by-step | Varies, often basic | High, but fewer options | Mixed |
| Materials/Cut Lists | Included for every project | Sometimes missing | Included | Included |
| Beginner-Friendly | Yes | Yes | Yes | Mixed |
| Focus | Sheds (storage, barns, garden, etc.) | Small/basic sheds | Practical backyard sheds | General woodworking |
Which One Should You Choose?
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If you only need one simple shed, a free plan might be enough.
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If you want professional quality with clear diagrams, Family Handyman is a good option but limited.
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If you want general woodworking projects beyond sheds, TedsWoodworking offers more variety.
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But if you want the most complete, shed-focused library with professional-level detail, Ryan’s Shed Plans is hard to beat.
With over 12,000 options, you’ll find a design that fits your space, budget, and skill level—whether you’re building a small garden shed or a full workshop.
👉 Ready to build your dream shed? Get instant access to Ryan’s Shed Plans here.
✅ Pro Tip: Pair your shed project with proper safety and tool guides. Check out our post on Shed Safety Tips – Essential Guide for DIY Builders for more details.
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