Building a Golf Putting Green

Create a backyard putting green. Follow these step-by-step instructions from Don't Sweat It host Steve Watson.

hdswt104_puttinggreenafter

After: Perfect for Putting

After: Perfect for Putting

Materials:

12' pressure-treated 4x4s
12' pressure-treated 2x4s
1-1/2 tons stone dust
silica sand
putting carpet
pea gravel
landscape spikes
landscape fabric

hdswt104_puttinggreenbefore

Before: Unused Swing

Before: Unused Swing

Tools:

digging tools
wheelbarrow
level
string-line
cordless drill and bits
3 lb. sledge hammer
golf hole cutter
plate compactor (rental)
water drum roller (rental)

frame 2

hdswt104_4a_layborder

frame 2

Steps:

1. Select a location with relatively flat terrain. Use the pressure-treated timbers to create a border for the putting green. Use string-line (or twine and stakes) and level to place the timbers.

frame 1

hdswt104_4b_layoutmesh

frame 1

2. Roll out landscape fabric to prevent weeds and secure with landscape spikes.

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hdswt104_4c_layingcrushedstone

frame 7

3. Fill a two-inch layer of stone dust in the entire box.

hdswt104_4d_compacter

4. Compact first layer using the plate compacter. Apply another two-inch layer and compact. Add more stone dust as desired to create contours.

frame 24

hdswt104_4e_layingcarpet

frame 24

5. Lay down putting carpet and cut to desired shape.

hdswt104_4f_sandongreen

6. Using a broom, spread silica sand over the surface to hold the carpet down.

frame 19

hdswt104_4g_waterroller

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7. Roll over the entire area with water roller to smooth out any bumpy spots.

hdswt104_4h_peagravel

8. Spread pea gravel to cover the area between the edge of green and timbers.

frame 3

hdswt104_4i_cupcutter

frame 3

9. Use golf hole cutter where desired.

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hdswt104_4j_cupsinhole

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10. Drop cups and flags into holes.

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