Garden paths: 12 easy-to-imitate stone walkways

Classic brick

Using bricks as pavers is an easy path solution and looks great in any garden. Simply create a level surface, line with a mesh barrier fabric for weed control, add a shallow level of crushed gravel, and arrange bricks in the desired pattern. Fill the joints with silica or basalt sand. If the openings are larger, use small-sized gravel.

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Framed

Set square paving stones into a bed of darker-colored loose stones to create a simple yet modern walkway. The concrete squares used here perfectly complement the home's aesthetic, while offering their own curb appeal. Slate stones set amid white gravel would have worked just as well.

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Neat gravel walkway

While you can use any number of things to border a gravel path — from pressure-treated lumber and stones to store-bought plastic edging — consider paving stones to create a more professional, finished look. Size, composition and affordability all make today's pavers an easy solution to many landscaping needs.

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Spaced-out stones

Leaving space between stones will allow greenery to grow and contribute to the natural beauty of a garden walkway. Arrange the stones accordingly, leaving a few inches of room for grass or moss. Or consider interspersing drought-tolerant plants like thyme — as landscape designer and author Susan Schlenger suggests — to create softness, interest and charm.

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Rustic natural stone

Create a more rustic garden walkway by combining different shapes and colors of flagstone into a richly patterned mosaic. You can approach the project as you would a puzzle: choose stones for fit and coloration. Unlike other stone installations, this one requires no cutting equipment or special tools — just an artistic eye.

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Winding walkway

The graceful flow of this winding garden path is made even more striking by its well-fitted stone configuration. Such precision requires a good deal of planning, plus the stone you choose must be able to take a circular cut without fracturing. This example was made with banas stone, a durable quartzite sandstone.

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Complementary colors

Similarly colored stepping stones and gravel give this garden path its seamless look. You can create something similar by shopping for materials at your local big-box retailer or landscape-supply center. For an alternative look, consider playing with different colored stones and gravel, or decorate flat stones with painted stenciled patterns.

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Natural path

Naturally shaped stones create a beautiful garden path, particularly when separated by greenery, sand or mulch. Here, oversized flagstone is arranged in a random pattern to create a dramatic entrance. When planning your garden path, think of how it will look through the seasons.

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Simple squares

Create a simple yet distinctive path by placing random-sized paving stones into the lawn. Lay the stones out in the desired pattern, using a shovel to outline where the grass will need to be removed. Move the stones, remove the grass and insert the stones in place. Easy and beautiful — the perfect DIY combo.

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Stone borders

The tiered border of this gravel walkway gives it a charmingly finished look. Consider something similar along the raised beds in your landscape or garden. The opposite side of the path can be contained easily with vinyl edging sold at lawn and garden centers.

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Fitting composition

Even irregular stones can be fitted together to create a distinctive and colorful garden path. Choose stones that offer the look and color that you want, then piece them into a unique pathway. While it will require planning and a bit of patience, there will be no need for stone-cutting equipment or multiple tools.

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