DIY flagstone backyard path checklist
This list is for a short flagstone walking path from a patio to a backyard feature. It does not cover a mortared stone walkway.
What to get
Irregular flagstones
20
Landscape marking paint
1 can
Garden hose for path layout
1
Flat shovel
1
Hand tamper
1
Crushed stone dust
8 bags
Coarse sand
6 bags
Landscape fabric
1 roll
Steel garden rake
1
Rubber mallet
1
Long level
1
Tape measure
1
Paver edging
24 linear feet
Edging spikes
20
Wheelbarrow
1
Work gloves
1 pair
Safety glasses
1 pair
Who this list is for
This checklist is for a short, unmortared flagstone path from a patio to a backyard feature. It uses irregular flagstones over stone dust and sand, not a mortared stone walkway.
How to use this list
Shape the route first with the garden hose, then mark it with landscape marking paint. Remove soil using the flat shovel, rake the trench, and lay landscape fabric. Add crushed stone dust and compact it with the hand tamper. Add coarse sand, set the irregular flagstones one at a time, and tap them into place with the rubber mallet while checking with the long level. Install paver edging and spikes along the sides.
Common mistakes
Do not buy flagstones before laying out the path; irregular pieces need a route that can adapt to their shapes. Avoid setting stones on an uneven, loose base. Do not use this list for a mortared installation, since it includes stone dust, coarse sand, and landscape fabric instead.
What is on this list
The list calls for 20 irregular flagstones, eight bags of crushed stone dust, six bags of coarse sand, one roll of landscape fabric, and 24 linear feet of paver edging. It also includes 20 edging spikes, a garden hose, rake, tamper, rubber mallet, wheelbarrow, level, gloves, and safety glasses. Cross off what you already have.
When you are done
Walk the path carefully and reset any flagstone that rocks or sits proud of its neighbors. Sweep loose sand and stone dust from the surface. Keep the route clear so the patio-to-backyard feature path remains easy to use.
FAQ
Who is "DIY flagstone backyard path checklist" for?
This checklist is for a short, unmortared flagstone path from a patio to a backyard feature. It uses irregular flagstones over stone dust and sand, not a mortared stone walkway.
How should I use "DIY flagstone backyard path checklist"?
Shape the route first with the garden hose, then mark it with landscape marking paint. Remove soil using the flat shovel, rake the trench, and lay landscape fabric. Add crushed stone dust and compact it with the hand tamper. Add coarse sand, set the irregular flagstones one at a time, and tap them into place with the rubber mallet while checking with the lo…
What should I skip or avoid with "DIY flagstone backyard path checklist"?
Do not buy flagstones before laying out the path; irregular pieces need a route that can adapt to their shapes. Avoid setting stones on an uneven, loose base. Do not use this list for a mortared installation, since it includes stone dust, coarse sand, and landscape fabric instead.
What is on the "DIY flagstone backyard path checklist" list?
The list calls for 20 irregular flagstones, eight bags of crushed stone dust, six bags of coarse sand, one roll of landscape fabric, and 24 linear feet of paver edging. It also includes 20 edging spikes, a garden hose, rake, tamper, rubber mallet, wheelbarrow, level, gloves, and safety glasses. Cross off what you already have.
What should I do when I am done?
Walk the path carefully and reset any flagstone that rocks or sits proud of its neighbors. Sweep loose sand and stone dust from the surface. Keep the route clear so the patio-to-backyard feature path remains easy to use.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.