How to Lay Terracotta Pavers

Remove any plants, rocks and other debris from the area where the pavers are to be laid. Level out the area using a spade to move or dig out dirt as necessary. Rake the area flat, which will also uncover any hidden roots that may need to be removed using a spade or trowel.

Prepare a mixture of half sand and half fine gravel by mixing with a spade. Pour the mixture onto the area where the pavers are to be laid. The sand and gravel should be laid to a thickness of 2 inches to provide an adequate bedding for the pavers. Rake the mixture so it is level.

Mix a small batch of mortar made from a little water, one part cement and four parts sand, using the spade. Apply the mortar to the underside of an edging paver and press it into the bedding layer. Mortar and lay the second piece of edging. Continue until you have edged one side of the area. Lay a second row of edging in the same fashion, so you have two edged sides at right angles to one another.

Place two rows of pavers to get an idea of the right position for each stone. The pavers should fit in place flush with the edging. Mix another small batch of mortar. Coat the underside of the first paver with mortar and press it down into the bedding layer. Take up the next paver and mortar it, then press it firmly into place. Repeat with the other pavers until you have paved the entire area.

Brush a layer of sand over the pavers so the joints between pavers are all filled with sand. Tamp down the pavers by tapping over them with a length of wood to ensure they are all firmly in place, then brush sand across the pavers again to fill in any gaps missed the first time.