Preparation

• Measure and mark the area where you will be placing the patio. Using a sod cutter, remove the sod in the marked area. After the sod is removed, fill in the area with gravel. The layer of gravel should be approximately 3 to 5 inches thick. Use a rake to smooth and level the gravel. Level the gravel with a guide board. If the patio is going to be next to your home, slope the patio slightly from the house, about 1 inch for every 8 to 10 feet. This will help to promote proper drainage from the foundation of the home. Compact the gravel with a vibrating plate compactor. Add 2 inches of sand on top of the gravel, level and compact again.
  
  

Laying the Stones

• Use a carpenter's square to determine if the patio is 90 degrees square. Begin placing the stones on the patio in the square corner. As you place each stone, use a rubber mallet to tap it into place. Check that each stone is level with the surrounding stones and away from the house. Allow approximately ¼ inch of space between each stone to allow for expansion and grout.
  
  

Cutting and Grouting

• Cut border stones for the patio with a circular saw with a diamond-chip blade. Use a pry bar to adjust the alignment of the joints between the stones. Grout the stones by sweeping sand into the joints of the stones. Pack the sand into the joints with a mason's trowel, and sweep more sand to completely fill the joints. Sweep the patio and spray the patio with a garden hose.