Stepping stones come in different standard sizes. Consider your options beforehand.

If you want as few joints as possible, choose stepping stones in the largest standard size.

If you prefer easier handling, go for the smallest standard size.

Measure and outline your area, and see if you can design a pattern that requires minimal adjustments to the stones.

Or perhaps you’d like to get creative and design a unique pattern? Stepping stones are sold individually, so you can order different sizes to suit your needs.

Once you have your pattern planned, calculate the number of stepping stones needed. You may want to add an extra one or two just in case.

If the area is hard to access or far away, consider delivery by a truck equipped with a crane to save time and effort.

The slate should be laid on a “cushion” of gravel. A layer of at least 5 cm is recommended. A gravel fraction of 5 mm to 11 mm works well.

Rake the gravel evenly but take into account the direction you want rainwater to drain—create a slope accordingly, for example, away from a house wall.

Start by assessing the thickness of the stepping stones and identify the thickest one. This will guide the laying process, as you will adjust the gravel to compensate for variations in thickness. This means removing some gravel for thicker stones and adding more for thinner ones.

Take the first stone and check its thickness. Adjust the gravel layer as needed, and lay it down. Press the stone into the gravel using your body weight or a rubber mallet.

Lay the next stone beside the previous one, leaving a joint width of about 1–3 cm. The joint width will naturally vary due to the rough-cut edges of the stones.

Continue laying the stones, adjusting the gravel and checking with a level.

Cutting Lengths:

If your pattern requires cutting a stepping stone to size, this can be done very easily. Light Oppdal slate has unique properties that make it simple to adjust with basic tools.

Measure and mark the stone where it needs to be cut. Use a blunt-ended chisel and run it along the marking while tapping it with a hammer. Start gently and gradually increase the pressure until the stone splits. See a more detailed description here–>

Continue with the next row, ensuring each stone is level.

For jointing, use gravel or joint sand. We recommend not using traditional sand for paving stones, as it contains fine dust. A fraction of 2 – 5 mm works well, providing drainage through the joints and helping the patio or path dry faster without pooling water that can collect dirt and debris.

Gravel provides excellent drainage for the joints. A gravel fraction of 8 – 11 mm works well.

Sweep the jointing sand or gravel thoroughly into the joints, making sure they are well-filled. Repeat this process over the next few days as the material settles, and you’ll likely need to top it up again next spring as it compacts over time.