Digging complications.

Digging complications. Don’t build directly under trees. It could damage the tree, and besides, digging out roots is no fun. Contact local utility companies before you dig and have them locate buried lines.

Plan a strategy for getting the materials to and from your patio location. Sand and gravel will arrive in dump trucks that are too heavy be driven on your driveway or in your yard without damaging them. You’ll probably have to use wheelbarrows. If it’s a long haul, ask your supplier for a smaller truck or skid loader that can get closer.

When you’ve found a suitable spot, make a rough sketch showing trees, shrubs and gardens, then take measurements. Transfer these measurements to graph paper, letting each square equal 1 ft. Lay tracing paper over your plan and sketch in the stone border and bricks. Experiment with different designs, and when you come up with a plan you like, use it to calculate the quantities of materials and help you place the stones. Remember that this is a casual, free-form patio. Have fun and let the plan evolve as you work.