Independent Review

Ryan's Shed Plans Review (2026): Is It Worth $37?

We analyzed the massive 12,000+ shed plans library to see if it actually delivers on its promise for DIY beginners, or if it's just another overhyped digital product.

Last Updated: October 2026
TOP RATED DIY
4.8 / 5 Score

Bottom Line: Ryan's Shed Plans is the best bang-for-your-buck collection available online today. While the sheer volume can be slightly overwhelming, the detailed 3D CAD drawings and exact material lists save beginners hundreds of dollars in wasted lumber alone.

Get Access to 12,000+ Plans

What Exactly Is Ryan's Shed Plans?

Created by professional craftsman Ryan Henderson, Ryan's Shed Plans is a massive digital library containing over 12,000 shed blueprints and woodworking projects. The core promise is simple: make shed-building achievable for everyday homeowners without needing expensive contractors or pre-built, flimsy plastic kits.

Unlike generic free plans you find on Google that often skip crucial steps, this package claims to offer "hold-you-by-the-hand" instructions. It covers everything from small 6x8 garden tool sheds to massive multi-car garages and custom studios.

What's Inside The Package?

  • 12,000+ Shed PlansCovering all sizes and styles from classic gable to modern designs.
  • Step-by-Step InstructionsWritten so simply that a complete beginner can follow them.
  • 3D CAD DrawingsVisual guides showing exactly how pieces fit together from all angles.
  • Exact Materials & Cutting ListsRemoves the guesswork. You know exactly what to buy at Home Depot with zero waste.
  • Directory of SuppliersA rolodex to help you find cheap lumber and rare materials.

The Honest Pros & Cons

What We Liked

  • Unbeatable variety of styles and sizes
  • Materials lists save you serious money at the hardware store
  • LEGO-like, beginner-friendly instructions
  • Massive value compared to buying a single plan
  • Includes 400 bonus woodworking projects
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

What Could Be Better

  • 12,000 plans can feel overwhelming at first glance
  • Inconsistent quality (some older plans are lower resolution)
  • Organization could be improved for easier searching
  • No video content included (PDFs only)
  • Contains many niche plans you'll likely never build

How It Compares to Alternatives

Vs. Ted's Woodworking

Ted's is famous for 16,000+ plans covering all sorts of projects. Ryan's is specifically hyper-focused on sheds and outbuildings, making it the better choice if a shed is your primary goal.

Vs. Individual Plan Sites

You can buy a single, highly-polished premium plan elsewhere for $30-$50. Ryan's gives you thousands for the same price. If you want options, Ryan's wins easily.

Vs. Free Plans Online

Free plans often lack complete materials lists or proper 3D diagrams, leading to costly mistakes during the build. The $37 investment here acts as "insurance" against buying the wrong lumber.

Final Verdict

So, is Ryan's Shed Plans worth the $37? Yes, absolutely.

If you weigh the strong points against the weak points, it provides substantial value for the money. You are getting an almost endless supply of shed designs complete with material lists for a cost that is trivial compared to hiring a contractor or making a mistake cutting expensive wood.

You should temper your expectations about the "12,000" figure—not every single plan is a masterpiece, and you will have to sift through to find your perfect design. Think of it as a giant, affordable toolkit.

With a full 60-day money-back guarantee, it's a zero-risk investment for anyone looking to reclaim their garage and build a beautiful shed this weekend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly do I get when I purchase Ryan's Shed Plans?

You get instant access to an online members area where you can download over 12,000 shed plan files (PDF format). These include all the shed blueprints, instructions, and material lists. Additionally, you receive several bonus guides (advanced tips, modification worksheet, supplier directory) and an extra 400 general woodworking plans (non-shed projects) like furniture, small crafts, etc., complete with material lists and instructions as well. The standard purchase is digital, but you have the option to request the whole collection on a DVD (for the cost of shipping) if you prefer a physical backup. Lifetime access means you can log in anytime; there's no expiration on the plans. The purchase is a one-time payment with no hidden charges or subscriptions.

Are the plans suitable for beginners or only experienced builders?

They are definitely beginner-friendly. The plans are geared toward beginners and hobbyists, so they're written in plain language with an easy-to-follow format. Many customers with little woodworking experience have successfully built sheds using these plans, which speaks to the clarity of the instructions. The step-by-step 'LEGO-like' approach means you're never jumping into a complicated step without context. Everything is laid out logically. If you can follow basic directions and handle common tools, you can likely build a shed with these plans.

Does each plan come with a materials list and measurements?

Yes. One of the strengths of this package is that every plan includes a complete materials list and cutting list. The materials list tells you all the lumber, hardware, and supplies you'll need to build that project, often down to the number of nails or screws. The cutting list gives you the dimensions and quantity of each piece of lumber to cut. This means you can take the list to your local lumber yard or home center and buy everything in one go, and you'll know how to cut the pieces to size. These lists remove a lot of guesswork and ensure you don't forget anything important. They also help in estimating cost for your shed upfront.

Are the 12,000 plans all different? Why is the number so high?

The collection is very large because it tries to compile every type of shed and outdoor structure plan you might need. The plans do vary—there are different styles, sizes, and purposes. However, the 12,000 count does include some variations or similar plans. Some are bigger structures like barns or garages, and part of that count includes a cache of general woodworking plans. So not literally 12,000 unique shed buildings, but you'll still have hundreds of distinct shed designs to choose from. The big number just signifies 'you won't run out of options.'

Can I modify the plans if I want a different size or design tweak?

Yes, and in fact the package provides help for that. One of the bonuses is called 'Magic Modifications', which is a worksheet or guide teaching you how to alter the dimensions of any shed plan. For example, if you have a plan for a 10x10 shed but you want it to be 8x8 or 12x12, the guide shows you how to adjust the measurements proportionally and what factors to consider.

What if I have questions or need help while building?

While this isn't a live coaching program, support is available. Ryan Henderson offers email support—if you have specific questions, you can reach out. The product also comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. If you find it truly unworkable, you can get a refund. But in practice, many find the instructions clear enough to proceed.

How does the money-back guarantee work?

It's a 60-day, no-questions-asked guarantee. If you find the product doesn't meet your expectations for any reason, you can email for a full refund within 60 days. This is backed by the retailer (ClickBank).

Do I need any special software to use the plans?

No, just a PDF reader. You can view them on any standard device—computer, tablet, phone—and you can print out hard copies as needed.

Will these plans meet my local building codes or permit requirements?

The plans are generally sound, but local building codes vary. For small sheds, often no permit is needed. For larger structures, you might need to submit the plan for approval or adapt it. Consider local rules if you're building a bigger shed or adding utilities.

How much does Ryan's Shed Plans cost?

Around $37 as a one-time payment. That includes all 12,000 shed plans, bonuses, and lifetime access. Sometimes you'll see different offers, but $37 is the standard, with optional shipping if you want the physical DVD.