How to Make a Simple Walkway

Draw an outline of your walkway on the site with landscape paint or wooden stakes and string. Measure the dimensions to ensure that the walkway is wide enough for two people and that the curves are not too sharp.

Excavate the site of your walkway and continue to dig until the surface is 8 inches below the ground. Dig until the soil is level throughout.

Place landscape fabric over the soil, and secure it every 2 feet with metal spikes. The landscape fabric will prevent weeds from growing through the foundation of your walkway.

Spread a 6-inch layer of gravel over the landscape fabric. Use a hand tamper or the back of a flat shovel to tamp the surface of the gravel until it is compact. Pour a 1-inch layer of sand over the gravel and smooth it over with a rake or 2-by-4.

Place your first paver or stone on an outer corner of the walkway. The paver should sit at least 1 inch above ground level. Tap the paver or stone with a rubber mallet to press it firmly into the sand.

Set the next paver or stone next to the first, leaving 1/8-inch of space in between. Tap the second stone until it is the same level as the first stone. Continue to place the stones according to your chosen pattern, setting them in straight rows for a formal look or fitting them together like puzzle pieces for a rustic look.

Dump fine sand over the surface once all of the pavers or stones are in place. Use a shop broom to compact the sand into the gaps between the stones to provide cushioning as the stones settle over time.