Installation of Stepping Stones

Plan the overall style and design of the walkway. If you are using square cut stones, consider using a string line to orient the stones in a straight path. If using naturally shaped stones, such as found flagstones, consider making a path that is not perfectly straight but has a slight undulation.

Lay natural flagstones down so that their convex and concave edges interact in a harmonious manner. This will give an expressive and fluid quality to the design. In general, stepping stones should be placed at about 2-feet on center so as to allow for a natural walking pace.

Cut out the shape of each step using a spade if you are installing steps in an existing lawn and dig out enough earth so you can add about 2 inches of sand or crushed stone beneath each step. Use a garden hand trowel and small carpenter's level to prepare a flat bed for the stone. The top of the stones should be level and slightly higher than the surrounding earth.

Spread mulch or gravel around stones that are laid down directly onto a bare dirt area. Also consider planting some foliage, such as low-growing flowers or moss, along the pathway. Spread grass seeds around stones installed in an existing lawn and water any new plantings thoroughly.