3 Ways to Space Out Stepping Stones to Fit Your Stride

So, you want to install a stepping stone path to add texture, comfort, eye appeal, and a practical way to get from here to there in your outdoor space? How do you know how much space to leave between the paving stones? Should you space it for kids or adults? Are there standards or general rules to follow when laying the stones?

This article will look at ways to space out stepping stones to create a path with the ideal dimensions for you.

24” Rule 

The 24” Rule is often the standard distance for laying a path of stepping stones. To start spacing paving stones, you want to lay them in a way that comfortably accommodates the stride of an average human. Spacing them 24” center-to-center is suitable for most people.

This method requires a bit of measuring, and spacing will depend on the size of the paving stone you are using.

2×4 method

This method is the easiest and most consistent for spacing out your stepping stones. All you have to do is place a regular 2×4 on its “wide” side to create symmetrical 4” spaces between the edges of your stones.

This method makes installation a charm as you can use a one or two-foot-long (or even shorter) 2×4 as your “ruler” between your stones.

Custom method

If you do not care too much about your paving stones being placed the same distance apart, you can always opt for a custom style and place them anywhere you prefer. Start with 3”–6” between stones, and adjust from there to fit the last paver without needing to cut it.

The custom method works well if you have space constraints or use a whimsical mosaic pattern for your path. It is also handy if you have a shorter or longer stride than is average.

Additional tips and tricks

Let’s look at a few final ideas to ensure your stepping stones are spaced correctly.

First, always test your layout before installing. This will ensure it ends up both comfortable and pleasing to the eye.

Second, measure the stride of the shortest person in your household, and check to ensure they can walk on the pathway without having to stretch or make a mini-jump from stone to stone.

Finally, make sure you mark your predetermined spacing well before you excavate the area. It’s essential that you can easily follow the pattern you’ve decided on.

Get our free paver project planning guide

Are you ready to start planning to install your stepping stone path? Download our free Project Planning Guide to make the process easy.