You don’t have to have a large space, a big budget or even big muscles to build a water feature into your landscape. Although large ponds and waterfalls are beautiful, you can achieve much of the same ambience (with much less work) by creating a small fountain.

Fountains are easier to build and maintain and much less expensive than large water features. And you can install them in locations where it would be nearly impossible to create a large pond, such as in a small garden or on a deck or balcony. Designing your own fountain is probably easier than you think.

There are only three functional components: a spout, a reservoir and a pump. The pump is hidden, so the flow rate is the main variable you’ll need to consider when you choose one (see “Pump Basics,” below). On the other hand, the spout, the reservoir and any decorative materials you add provide ample opportunity to exercise your creativity.

Click here to download a pdf of these water-fountain plans, complete with building instructions, photos, drawings and a cutting list for three small fountains.