Using various online photos and DIY descriptions, I laid these out and, with the help of two friends, built them. Woman Power! I think my total expense was about $400. I had pipe sections cut at the store and used pine stepping (nice and thick and has the bullnose) that I bought from my local hardware store (under $200). I degreased the pipe (did not paint it) and used a prestain (essential for pine) and stain on the wood, followed by linseed oil. I love the shelves!