Authors David and Jeannie Stiles give readers all the information they need to build their own cabins -- whether it be as a wilderness retreat or a backyard studio. The authors describe each step in the process from buying land to obtaining services, from finding qualified construction help to deciding on and developing plans for a structure that suits their lifestyle and budget. Cabins is packed with detailed illustrations, plans and common-sense advice.

Chapters include classic construction methods: how to build a log cabin, pole-built and stick-built cabin, post-and-beam, stone, cordwood and kit cabins. Construction methods are clearly illustrated in photographs and drawings and the advantages of each are explained in detail. Foundations, windows, doors, insulation, roofing, installing utilities, water and sanitary systems and heating are all discussed.

Many designs are presented as inspiration and to help readers select the cabin that is perfect for them: homesteader log cabin, writing cabin, guest cabin, Japanese moon-gazing cabin, lakeside retreat, pyramid and A-frame, and hillside Mediterranean cabin. The authors include personal reminiscences from successful builders and cabin owners, and discuss furnishings and accessories that can help readers get the most enjoyment out of their newly built wilderness retreat.

This is a coloring and planning book that the entire family can enjoy: relaxing together while also getting inspired to perhaps design and build their own tree house in the future. There will be a few pages at the end with beautiful trees that have a space for readers to draw their own tree house designs, and a large pencil-wielding hand directing them to the empty space. A source page at the end of the book lists other tree house coloring books as well as simple directions on mixing watercolors and choosing brushes.

"Ideas and techniques for designing and building workspaces inside and outside the home."

Workshops are not just for carpenters and builders. The workshops in this book have been designed for writers, artists, furniture makers, boat builders, gardeners, collectors and those who like to maintain and restore old cars.

And workshops don't have to be expensive - one of the workshops in this book was constructed inside a closet. Even the most elaborate separate building can be put up for a very reasonable cost if you follow the instructions in this book and do the work yourself.

Based on the success of their previous best selling books - "Cabins," "Sheds" and "Playhouses You Can Build" - the author team of David and Jeanie Stiles have combined their skills and experience to walk you step-by-step through the selection and construction of a workshop that will give you years of enjoyment and add to the value of your house when you come to sell.

Just a few of the other fact-filled chapters in this book include: Why and Where to Build -- how to design and plan a workshop in your basement, garage, attic, or building an addition or separate building Building the Workshop -- construction and design fundamentals Portable and Mini-Workshops -- no matter how little space you have, you can make something worthwhile Skill Review -- a basic primer on woodworking skills that covers all the basics - no experience necessary.

Workshops You Can Build is packed with over 300 detailed and beautiful illustrations by the author which show every step of the building process in detail.