I'm pretty handy for a girl, but my first coop was a rubbermaid mower shed I curb-rescued. I needed a coop pronto since the hens I got were headed to the chopping block otherwise. (And I didn't want to spend a fortune on a pre-made coop.) All you need is a reciprocating saw, screw gun, utility knife, some scrap wood, a few foundation vents, roof vent, and a medium sized dog door. I put mine on the ground, but the one I modeled mine after was raised. I see similar sheds or children's playhouses on Craigslist for $50 pretty often. Another good choice is if you have a tractor/mower dealer nearby they get the equipment in wood crates that make an excellent starting point.
