How to Install a Flagstone Path

Plan the route of your path by drawing it on graph paper and marking any areas like sheds, flower beds, the house or driveway that it should move around or meet up with.

Lay out your intended pathway in your yard with stakes, stones or other markers. The path should be 3 to 4 feet wide. Try walking the path to make sure it is laid out as you want it.

Measure the length of your path. This will help you to determine how much sand, benderboard, flagstone and gravel you need.

Remove sod between your markers with a shovel. The path should be 5 to 6 inches deep.

Use benderboard or other wood to edge the path.This will keep gravel from your path from escaping into your lawn or garden. Cut the benderboard with a handsaw so that it conforms to the curves of your path. Set the board so that it rises about 3/4 inches out of the ground and use stakes to secure it about every 3 feet.

Pour sand into the path and rake it smooth. Moisten the sand with a hose while raking. There should be about 2 inches of damp sand covering the path.

Use a drum roller or hand tamper to press the sand down until it is firm.

Set the flagstones. Arrange them so that only an inch or two of space remains between each. When they are set where you want them, push them down into the sand.

Fill any cracks between flagstones with gravel. Take handfuls of gravel and place them with your hands, or pour gravel over the path and rake it into open areas. Use your feet to stomp these areas flat.