Watch video of this step. Now that the pavers are set in the base, use a push broom to fill in the joints with a fine layer of sand (image 1). Sweep off the excess sand from the patio surface. To pack the sand into the joints, spray the patio with water from a garden hose (image 2).
http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/building-a-paver-patio
Remove the sod within the outline to make the job easier. Place the batter boards, keeping the crosspieces level (check them with a level). Then follow the rest of the steps to lay out the site. The steps shown here pertain to patio layout, but they are essentially the same for a wall footing or walk.
http://www.diyadvice.com/diy/patios-walls/how-to/lay-out-the-site/
You'll want to make sure the patio shape you select is well suited to your needs and the setting. Spend some time looking at photos of various patios in magazines, books and on the web. Factors that dictate patio shape: Your property's shape and size. What you plan to use the patio for.
https://www.landscapingnetwork.com/patios/shapes.html
Deciding between a square, round or free-form patio. 1  A large rectangular patio allows for the creation of distinct outdoor rooms and lends itself to entertaining groups. 2  This small round patio is perfect for outdoor dining. 3  Free-form patios are asymmetrical and unpredictable, creating an informal feel.
https://www.landscapingnetwork.com/patios/shapes.html
Squaring the Deck Frame. Once the perimeter boards are in place you can “square” the deck using 2 tape measurers. This will only work if the form you are testing has symmetrical geometry. In the case of a square or a rectangle you will measure diagonally from corner to corner on both sides. These measurements should be equal.
http://www.decks.com/how-to/295/squaring-the-deck-frame
This project covers preparing and laying out the site for your patio. Intro. Laying out a site so the perimeter is perfectly square relies on the simplest of homemade tools -- batter boards. You'll need two batter boards for each corner (unless you drive stakes close to the house).
http://www.diyadvice.com/diy/patios-walls/how-to/lay-out-the-site/
Square Patios. The most common patio shape is a square or rectangle. While this design is not the most creative, it is often the most practical and cost effective. Square patios, featuring straight edges and ninety degree angles, fit well into formal and contemporary style gardens.
https://www.landscapingnetwork.com/patios/shapes.html
How to Prepare the Patio Site. 1. Measure the slope of the patio to determine if you need to do grading work before you start your project. First, drive stakes at each end of the project area. Attach a mason’s string between the stakes and use a line level to set it at level. At each stake, measure from the string to the ground.
https://quikrete.com/athome/patio.asp
Once the patio layout is done, you're ready to excavate the area. Dig deep enough to allow for the base material under the pavers. Pavers vary in thickness. The rule of thumb is to dig to the thickness of the paver, plus another six inches for a solid base.
http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/building-a-paver-patio
At your patio location, measure the area and pound four stakes into each corner. We did ours 12' square – 11' square plus 6 on each side for edging (image 2). Tie mason string to mark off the square (image 3). Measure diagonally across the stakes from opposite corners to make sure the patio area is square.
http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/building-a-paver-patio
how to square patio
To square patio, fit well straight edges and ninety degree angles into formal and contemporary style gardens.