John Casey
How to Make a Lily Pond
Use treated lumber and a pond liner to create a soothing water feature in your backyard
How to Build a Cedar Compost Bench
Use clear cedar boards to assemble a comfortable and productive focal point for your yard.
A Porch Railing With Pizzazz
The This Old House TV team creates a railing of flatsawn balusters that packs a big visual punch
How to Build a Rain Barrel
Collecting rainwater is a no-brainer for gardening. It’s the ugly black barrels we could do without. So here’s a plan you can use to build your own rain barrel, one that’s both eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing. It’s a simple project, thanks to an off-the-shelf diverter kit that connects to a downspout.
Finding and Restoring Hidden Plaster Details
In an act of upside-down residential archaeology, the This Old House TV crew reveals—and rebuilds—historical plaster details entombed above a false ceiling
How to Build a Coffered Ceiling
Apply basic carpentry techniques to primed boards and molding to add a formal, elegant touch to any room
How to Dress Up a Hollow-Core Door
Apply panel molding to a featureless door to create a grand entrance to any room
How to Build a Spindle Headboard
It only looks tough to build. This easy-to-customize piece will give your bed an instant lift
How to Build a Butcher-Block Island
Combine iron threaded pipe and butcher block to create a kitchen centerpiece.
How to Build a Cedar Ice Chest
Make a handsome cedar ice chest cooler to update a backyard essential.