Reply by Dez

I generally design in my head (talking to myself) first, then a simple sketch to firm up the basic design and then do a detailed drawing. A lot of the time I review joinery etc in my head before I draw.
I still haven’t gotten the hang of SketchUp, although I am working on it.
I seldom build from a purchased plan although I may use one for ideas.
I build a lot of my stuff based on the materials I have on hand unless a customer specifies wood type and size.

-- Folly ever comes cloaked in opportunity!