As you have been going through this book, you have probably found one or more cottages that appeal to you. Perhaps you have already made up your mind. The balance of this book is designed to help you actually construct that cabin.

You'll note that after some of the following sections I have included a description of the various tools you will need. You are familiar with and own most of these, I'm sure. Those tools you don't have can usually be borrowed or rented.

Whether you intend to build immediately or are waiting until some future period, I'd suggest that you read the following sections, because they will show you what is involved. Follow the side sketches while you're reading; the work will seem simpler.

One of the things that I find helpful is to plan one day's work at a time. At first you will think that you can accomplish a great deal every day—you'll probably plan to do too much. Take it easy! Before you go to sleep at night, think out exactly how you are going to get those roof rafters in place. When you wake in the morning you'll find that your mind has added ideas to the ones you thought of before you dropped off to sleep.

A second suggestion I would like to make concerns ordering materials. Most lumber yards will take back unused materials. It is a good idea to order a little more than you need. Nothing is more exasperating than finding out at four o'clock that you can't finish the roof because you lack one framing member.

Here are two other suggestions that may be helpful. Order some extra roofing felt to protect the materials you have ordered. And, keep your tools sharp. The best power saw will burn your wood and cut poorly if the saw blade isn't sharp.

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