9 Steps on How to Lay Stepping Stone Pavers Easily: DIY Tips

9 Steps on How to Lay Stepping Stone Pavers Easily: DIY Tips

23 Mar 2023

Table Of Contents

Finishing your garden or patio with Stepping Stones can add a touch of beauty. As experts in the paving industry, we often receive inquiries about how to lay Stepping Stones. While placing the slabs directly on the gravel can be a quick and simple solution, they may become unstable and move over time. However, you can create a sturdier and more long-lasting path with a few additional steps. If you want to learn how to securely fix your paving onto a gravel surface and create the perfect Stepping Stone pathway, continue reading for our detailed guide.

Are Stepping Stones the Same as Outdoor Pavers?

Stepping Stones are often called garden or outdoor pavers since they are used for outside spaces. However, Stepping Stones and Outdoor Pavers are not identical.

Outdoor pavers are typically larger, thicker stones covering a significant area, usually 30mm thick. They are commonly used in patios, driveways, pool areas and walkways.

In contrast, Stepping Stones are irregularly shaped, often round and are primarily used in gardens, lawns, entryways, or walkways. You can use them in patios, driveways, or alfresco because of the distance between the stones and their irregular shapes.

Safety Considerations Before Laying Natural Stone Pavers

Before commencing any natural stone paving project, it is crucial to prioritize safety.

  • It is essential to wear protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to prevent any injuries from sharp edges on the pavers.
  • Ensure that the area where you intend to lay the pavers is free of debris and other tripping hazards.
  • Keep a first aid kit nearby in case of any unforeseen accidents.

You will require specific tools and materials to know how to lay Stepping Stone Pavers correctly. It is to achieve satisfactory results. Here are some of the items you will need:

  • Measuring tape and stakes to mark out the area
  • Shovel and wheelbarrow to remove any debris
  • Crushed stone or gravel for a base layer
  • Sand or stone dust for levelling
  • Rubber mallet and chisel to shape and cut the pavers
  • Straight edge and level for accuracy
  • Plate compactor for compacting the base and laying course
  • Joint filler such as sand or stone dust to fill gaps between the pavers
  • Sealant for protection against stains and weather damage.

You can successfully lay natural stone pavers and achieve an aesthetically pleasing outdoor space by ensuring you have the necessary tools and materials and following proper safety precautions.

Stepping Stones Laying Tips



  1. Choosing Your Stepping Stone Pavers
  2. Large stones, small stones, or something in between? What about the colour? A Silver Travertine Paver for a patio seems lovely. Or maybe something in buff sandstone?

    When it comes to installing paving stones, the possibilities appear virtually limitless. However, several factors can help you narrow your list and make an informed decision.

    Firstly, consider the application of the pavers. The type of natural stone pavers used for a patio may differ from those used for a driveway or garden path. Factors such as the width and thickness of the stone, density, underlayment and uniformity should also be kept in mind.

    If you intend to repave a driveway, you will require a thicker stone, typically at least 2 inches thick. Conversely, a thinner stone would be appropriate for a patio. Additionally, some natural stones are more suitable for specific uses than others. For instance, a brittle stone-like slate may not be ideal for a driveway but could work well along a garden path.

    At Stone Depot, we can guide you on how to lay Stepping Stone Pavers and assist you in making the right choice that suits your needs and preferences.

  1. Layout The Stepping Stone Pavers
  2. The next step in laying out your Stepping Stones is to determine the direction of your path and arrange the Stepping Stones loosely on the ground. To ensure an equal distance between the stones, use a tape measure or take one stride from the centre of one slab to the next.

    However, since the primary purpose of this path is to allow walking, it may be more practical to use one stride as the distance between each stone rather than an arbitrary measurement. Nonetheless, it is essential to consider the safety of other users, such as children or elderly individuals, who may use the path. If this is the case, placing the slabs closer is advisable to avoid tripping hazards.

    For added stability, you can apply PVA glue to the Stepping Stone Paver on its reverse side to improve the mortar’s grip. It helps prevent the paving slab from becoming loose or sliding off the cement bed once it has dried.

  1. Remove The Gravel from The Paver Area
  2. To ensure a level finish for your Stepping Stone pathway, it’s recommended to start with the first and last paver before laying the rest. This will help you in levelling the remaining pavers. Begin by removing the gravel from the area where the two pavers will be placed and then compact the ground using a metal tamper or other tools such as wood or your feet. Properly compacting the area is crucial as it creates a stable foundation for the paving and prevents the ground from sinking over time.

  1. Level Out Mortar Mix on Cleared Gravel Area
  2. After completing step three, the next step is to place a shovel full of mortar mix onto the cleared area. Creating an even mortar bed for the Stepping Stone Paver is essential, so use a cement trowel to level out the cement mix. Once you have covered the entire area of the Stepping Stone, gently place the paver onto the mixture. You may need to add or remove some mortar to achieve the desired finish. After placing the paver on the mortar, carefully move it into the exact position you measured in step one.

  1. Tapping Down the Stepping-Stone 
  2. After tapping down the surface to level it up, check for gaps between the paver and the mortar bed. If you find cracks, use a trowel to fill them with different mortar mixes. It’s essential to ensure the paver sits securely on the mortar bed and that there are no hollow spaces between them.

    Once you’re happy with the placement of the paver and the mortar underneath, leave it to dry and set it for 24 to 48 hours. Avoid stepping on the paver during this time to prevent it from moving or becoming uneven.

    Repeat the process for each remaining Stepping Stone, checking the placement, level and gaps between each paver. Finally, fill the gaps between the stones with sand or decorative pebbles.

  1. Direct Mortar Up and Around the Paver’s Side
  2. After building up the mortar mix against the sides of the paver, you should check again to ensure its level. Place the spirit level back on the paver and check if it needs more adjustments. If it does, gently tap the rubber mallet or wood-handled hammer until level.

    Once you’re satisfied with the level of the paver, wipe off any excess mortar with a trowel or a wet cloth. Allow the mortar to dry and set for at least 24 hours before walking on the paver or continuing with the next one.

    Repeat the process with the remaining pavers, keeping an equal distance between them and checking the level after each one.

  1. Attach A String Line to The Side of The Two Laid Pavers Using Line Pins
  2. Once the string line is in place, you can use it as a guide to lay the remaining Stepping stones. Place each paver onto the mortar mix, following the string line and maintaining the desired distance between each paver.

    After each paver is laid, use the rubber mallet or wood-handled hammer to tap it down and level it up. Then, fill any gaps underneath the paver with additional mortar mix and build up a small buttress against the sides to secure it in place.

    Repeat this process until all the Stepping Stones are securely fixed. Once complete, let the mortar dry and set for at least 24 hours before walking on the path.

  1. Use The String Line to Lay the Remaining Pavers
  2. After ensuring the pavers are level, you can fill any gaps between them with mortar mix, spreading it evenly with a trowel. Use a damp sponge to clean the surface of the pavers and remove any excess mortar. Let the mortar dry completely before walking on the path.

  1. Replace The Gravel Around the Pavers
  2. Remember to take your time and be patient throughout the process, as rushing could lead to mistakes. Once the pathway is complete, enjoy the fruits of your labour and take pride in the beautiful addition to your garden or any other outdoor space.

Summing Up All the Tips on How to Lay Stepping Stone Pavers

Admiring your work is always a great way to appreciate the effort and hard work that went into the project. Stepping Stones creates an attractive and functional feature in your outdoor space and adds value to your home.

Remember to take care of your Stepping Stone pathway by regularly removing debris and weeds and applying a sealant to protect the pavers from strains. And if you have any questions or need further assistance with your landscaping project, don’t hesitate to contact the natural stones experts at Stone Depot.

Thanks for following this guide on how to lay stepping stones. We hope you found it helpful and informative. Keep checking our product info page and how-to page for more tips and tricks on landscaping.

Here are a few more blogs that will help you to learn more about how to lay natural stones:

*Disclaimer: All information and advice given above in the blog are to the best of our knowledge. Please reconfirm at your end before execution.

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*Disclaimer: All information and advice given above in the blog are to the best of our knowledge. Please reconfirm at your end before execution.

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