How to Build a Stone Path

A path made of stepping stones is a simple, inexpensive way to add charm to your landscape. Stone paths offer a practical route for foot traffic from the sidewalk or driveway to your front door and along the side or back of the house.

By Sherry Rauh
Filed under: Stone, Walkways, How To

Step 3: Level the Stones

As you settle the stones into place, use a level to check each surface. When the level is parallel to the house, the bubble should be right in the middle, indicating that the stone is on an even grade. When the level is perpendicular to your house, you want to see a slight positive slope. This will allow water to slide off the stones and away from your house. This is particularly important when stepping stones are placed close to an exterior wall.

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Step 4: Install a Weed Barrier

A weed barrier will ensure that your stone path stays tidy and virtually maintenance-free for years. Once all the stones are in place and appropriately leveled, lay the weed barrier on top. Use garden shears to carefully cut holes for each stone. Weigh the barrier down with some pebbles as you work.

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Step 5: Fill with Pebbles

For a clean look, surround the stepping stones with small pebbles in a complementary, yet contrasting color. The pebbles should be deep enough to cover the weed barrier completely, but their surface should remain slightly lower than the surface of the stones.