A concrete block foundation has long been popular with owner-builders since it only requires a few tools and the skills can be learned by a first time builder.
This is a good overview PDF article focusing on basements - crawlspace foundations are similar (but easier).
http://tinyurl.com/2ub2tpd (it will take a few seconds to load).
(https://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g166/jraabe/block.jpg)
This article from JLC magazine. http://www.jlconline.com