While stone paths sometimes are laid in mortar, this requires a concrete foundation and experience with stone masonry.
A simple sandset path is much easier and is perfect forDIY installation.
Most flagstone that is 2 to 3 inches thick is ideal.
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Smallgarden pathsor those leading to secret nooks in the landscape can be sized for a single person.
Set up strings or hoses on both sides of the path.
Remove all grass or other vegetation (including all roots) in the path area.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Tamp the soil firmly with a hand tamp or simply by walking repeatedly over the ground.
Apply Landscape Fabric
Lay landscape fabric over the soil along the entire path.
take a stab at use a continuous piece as much as possible.
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If you must use multiple pieces, overlap their edges by at least 12 inches.
Add a Sand Layer
Add two inches of sand over the landscape fabric.
Spray the sand with water to help concentrate and compact it prior to setting the stones.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Set each stone so it is stable (without rocking) and is level with the surrounding stones.
Add or remove sand beneath each stone to raise or lower it, as needed.
Alternate large and small stones as well as different shapes and colors for a natural, random look.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Fill the Gaps
Add sand or gravel to fill the gaps between the stones, as desired.
You’ll want it to be about 5 inches deep and flattened to be smooth.
Stone spacing really depends on you and stride length.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
If the look of grass between the stones is desired, it can be planted following installation.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly