How to Make Stepping Stones in the Ground

Determine where you want the stepping stones. Study yard layouts and garden designs to ensure the pathway chosen is attractive yet functional. People will often bypass a path in favor of a shorter way to get where they want to go.

Mark out the path with pegs and string. Work out how many stones are required by measuring the distance between your steps. Bear in mind that shorter and taller people may also be using the path. Ensure they are not too close together or too far apart.

Select stepping stones most suited to your yard and budget. Any flat, non-slip stone or similar material will work. Make your own stepping stones cheaply with concrete and suitable molds. Recycle old or broken paving slabs. Lay bricks on edge in small, oblong groups. Alternatively, seasoned hardwood timber "slices" look very natural. Ensure they are at least 4 inches thick.

Place the stones adjacent to where they will be laid. If using irregular stones, vary them so there aren't too many of the same size next to each other.

Dig out shallow, flat-bottomed holes, slightly larger and 2 1/2 inches deeper than the stepping stones. Make the bottom as level as possible. Put in a 2-inch layer of sand or crushed stone. Lay the stone in the hole. The stone should be slightly lower than ground level to allow for mower blade clearance and to prevent tripping.

Tap the stone firmly into place with the mallet. Check that it is lying perfectly flat using the level. Stand on the stone to ensure it doesn't rock when walked on. If it does rock, tap again with the mallet. You may have to remove the stone and adjust the level of underlying sand/crushed stone. Fill in around the stone with loose dirt. Repeat with remaining stepping stones.