41 How-Tos From Yard Crashers

1. 11. How to Accessorize a Patio

   

   10 Thumbs

   A few extra touches can take a new patio to another level.

   Cost:

   $0 to $0

2. 12. How to Create Sunken Walkway Planters

   

   26 Thumbs

   Half-sunken containers add height and interest to a garden bed.

   Time:

   Day

   Cost:

   $50 to $100

   Difficulty:

   Easy to Moderate

3. 13. How to Build a Custom Sandbox

   

   8 Thumbs

   Kids outgrow swingsets and climbing structures over time, but this sandbox will give them years of imaginative play.

   Time:

   Under Half Day

   Cost:

   $100 to $250

   Difficulty:

   Easy to Moderate

4. 14. How To Create a Play Area

   

   7 Thumbs

   This new play area is padded with rubber mulch and outlined with plants. Edging keeps the rubber mulch out of the new sod.

   Time:

   Weekend

   Cost:

   $250 to $500

   Difficulty:

   Easy

5. 15. How to Build Redwood and Stone Steps

   

   2 Thumbs

   Create easy — and attractive — hillside access with a snazzy set of steps made from redwood, ledge stone and crushed rock.

   Time:

   Two Days

   Cost:

   $250 to $500

   Difficulty:

   Moderate

6. 16. How To Create a Paver Patio

   

   16 Thumbs

   This patio is easy to install — just keep it on the level.

   Time:

   Several Weekends

   Cost:

   $5000 to $10000

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

7. 17. How to Build a Freestanding Arbor Swing

   

   14 Thumbs

   A freestanding arbor frame can support a store-bought swing or the custom model below.

   Time:

   Two Days

   Cost:

   $250 to $500

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

8. 18. How To Lay New Sod

   

   8 Thumbs

   A quick fix to a dead landscape is instant green sod. Just a few rolls make a vibrant green carpet.

   Time:

   Several Weekends

   Cost:

   $500 to $1000

   Difficulty:

   Easy to Moderate

9. 19. How To Create a Stained Concrete Patio

   

   21 Thumbs

   Learn how to make a custom concrete patio with a rock-salt finish.

   Time:

   Several Weekends

   Cost:

   $5000 to $10000

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

10. 20. How to Build a Boulder Bench

    

    4 Thumbs

    Don't worry about a high wind tipping over this custom seating: Any breeze that could move this boulder-attached bench would probably d...

    Time:

    Under Half Day

    Cost:

    $100 to $250

    Difficulty:

    Moderate