How to Lay a Brick Path

1. BRICKS
Choose bricks rated for severe weather (SW), also called "clay pavers" at the stone yard. Modular bricks measure 8 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 1½ inches thick, but actual dimensions can vary by as much as half an inch. Measure the bricks you like and figure out how many you'll need for your pattern. Depending on the pattern's waste, figure about five bricks per square foot

2. GRADED BASE
(a combination of crushed stone and stone dust), for creating a sturdy, porous base

3. MASONRY SAND
or stone dust, for creating a smooth, porous base between the graded base and the bricks

4. 1x4 COMPOSITE LUMBER
to use as temporary guides along the edges of the path as you set the bricks. Composite lumber is easier to bend for curves than standard lumber, though the latter will also work

5. WOODEN STAKES
at least 1½ feet long, to secure the guide rails in place

6. 1 1/4-inch DECK SCREWS
to temporarily attach the stakes to the guide rails

7. 2x4 LUMBER
to make a screed for shaping the sand

8. GARDEN EDGING
(optional) to hold together certain patterns of brick. Must go at least 6 inches into the ground