Guided by a rediscovered spirit of self-sufficiency, a renewed sense of thrift, and a deepened commitment to the natural environment, legions of people are finding satisfaction in vegetable gardening. As gardeners spend more time in their gardens, they look for ways to make their gardens more productive, their garden chores easier, and their outdoor spaces more enjoyable. Now, with just a little time and a handful of tools, gardeners can create handsome, handcrafted items for their gardens at a fraction of the cost of buying retail. "The Vegetable Gardeners Book of Building Projects" presents 39 ideas for simple projects from cold frames to compost bins, from planters to picnic tables, and from trellises to tool storage. Each project was hand-selected by Storey's editors to be functional, attractive, and easy to complete. Each includes step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, complete materials and lumber lists, no-nonsense tips, and a four-color photograph of the finished product in its natural setting. Projects are as practical as they are simple; many are ideal for the beginning woodworker, and most can be completed in a matter of hours. Whether a gardener needs a support for his beans and peas or looks forward to relaxing in a lawn chair or garden swing when the work is done, these plans are the perfect starting point.

This book contains all the necessary information on basic tools and materials that the do-it-yourself enthusiast will need. It begins with a section on tools and techniques, which covers the basic items needed for most do-it-yourself jobs as well as giving a guide to storing your tools. The chapter on equipment and materials covers plaster, concrete and mortar, roofing materials, adhesives and sealants, as well as fixings and fittings, flooring, painting and wallpapering materials. The final section of the book consists of projects involving basic carpentry skills. From simple projects, such as putting up shelves, to more complex tasks, such as replacing a section of skirting and boxing-in wall pipes, this section will help you to carry out a variety of woodworking tasks.

For the rural homeowner, this illustrated, easy-to-understand manual covers the basics of a septic tank and drain field, potential problems and solutions, greywater systems, composting toilets, and other alternatives. 125 illustrations. Tables.