How to Lay Pavers for a Path

Draw an outline of the path on the ground with landscape paint. Walk the course of the outline to ensure that the curves feel natural and the width is not too narrow.

Remove soil from the path area with a shovel until the surface is six inches below ground level. Compact the surface with a hand tamper until it is completely flat. If your ground freezes in winter, dig until the surface is below the frost line to prevent frost heave damage.

Secure landscape fabric over the surface with 10-inch spikes to prevent weeds from developing beneath the pavers.

Add wood, metal or another flexible edging material to the border of the walkway. Drive 10-inch spikes through the slots in the material with a hammer to secure the edging to the ground.

Spread a four-inch layer of gravel over the landscape fabric, using a rake or two-by-four to smooth the surface evenly. Add a slight slope of one inch for every four feet to direct water runoff away from the home.

Dump a one-inch layer of coarse sand over the gravel. Spread it evenly, using the rake or two-by-four.

Lay pavers over the pathway beginning at an outer corner and working your way down the course. Place them side-by-side in straight rows, a puzzle-like pattern or other chosen design. Consistently space the pavers one-eighth inch apart. Tap the pavers with a rubber mallet until they are even with one another.

Fill the joints between pavers with fine sand, working it into the crevices with a stiff broom. Continue to compress and add more sand until the joints are completely filled, then brush off the excess sand.