Basic Brick Path

With bricks you can create almost any shape of walkway you want, from a straight and narrow formal walk to a meandering path. In addition, the options in brick patterns offer design versatility. Bricks set in sand are less stable than those set in concrete, but the gentle undulations of a well-worn brick path are part of the charm of this traditional landscaping material.

Calculate the total area of the path. Tell your material supplier what patterns you'll use (see Related Links, left), so material can be estimated accurately. Plan on making the path at least 36 inches wide so two people can walk comfortably side by side. Lay out the path, using the hardboard form to shape the curves. (Position one form on one side of the walk only. The other form will be positioned once most of the brick is in place.) Gather together the special tools needed for this project: a carpenter's level, measuring tape, shovels, a rake for smoothing the sand, a hand tamper, goggles and gloves, a brickset, and a baby sledge.

• 4-inch-wide 1/4-inch hardboard strips
• 2x2x12-inch stakes
• Coarse sand
• SW (severe weather) bricks
• Weed barrier: PVC sheeting or weed-block fabric
• 1-inch deck screws