How to Make a Patio Project

Outline the patio with mason's string, and then dig it out to 10 inches deep. Place a level on different parts of the patio floor to check that it is on an even plane and adjust as necessary.

Cut lengths of 2-by-10 lumber to fit the side of the patio using a saw. Set the lumber side pieces against the side of the patio border, and use a mallet to knock them into place.

Spread construction-grade CR-6 gravel over the bottom of the patio to around 8 inches deep. Drag a screed across the CR-6 to flatten the gravel and smooth it to level. Hose down the gravel to dampen it.

Tamp the CR-6 gravel with a hand tamper so that it compresses down to 4 inches. The CR-6 provides a very stable base for the patio and will also prevent weeds from germinating under the patio.

Spread 5 inches of sand over the gravel. Screed the sand, and dampen it with a hose. Use the hand tamper to compress the sand to 3 inches thick.

Lay the patio pavers on top of the sand, beginning from a corner and working backward until the whole patio is paved.

Sprinkle around one-fourth inch of sand over the pavers, and dampen in with the hose. Work the sand into joints of the paver with a broom, and then use the hand tamper to press the pavers and sand down. This won't actually compress the pavers, but it will help lock the pavers together.