How to Make a Curved Stone Wall

You don't need to know geometry in order to make the perfect curved stone wall. A wooden stake, a piece of rope and a big pile of rocks is all you need to construct a sturdy, visually pleasing structure that will last for years.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden stake
• Rope
• Hoe or other sharp tool
• Stones
• Chisel
• Goggles

Instructions

1. Choose the right type of stone to make your curved wall. If you are using flat stones or pavers, and you are keeping your wall under 3 or 4 feet, you may be able to construct the wall with rocks alone. If you are using round boulders or creating a higher wall, you may have to use mortar or another bonding material to hold the stone in place.

2. Mark the curve for your wall by sticking a wooden stake in the ground and attaching a rope or piece of twine to it. By adjusting the length of the rope and moving the stake, you can draw a perfect curve on the ground to act as a template. Use a hoe or other sharp object to carve the line into the ground or grass at regular intervals.

3. Sort the stone for your curved wall according to size and shape. You will need to use larger stones to form the ends of your wall, and smaller stones to plug up irregular spaces and cracks between rocks.

4. Make your curved stone wall by starting at the ends, using the largest stones to provide the base and edge. Place your stones in alternating positions for maximum strength, always setting 2 stones on top of 1, and 1 stone on top of 2.

5. Use a small chisel or hammer to break stones into smaller pieces, or to remove bumps and other surface irregularities that are preventing the stones from fitting properly. Be patient when using a chisel to shape the stone, chipping a small portion at a time.

6. Test the wall for stability once you are completed, moving stones around until the wall is completely secure. Remember that it is better to take down the wall and start over than to build an unsafe wall that may collapse later.

Tips & Warnings

• The types of stone you use and the ultimate height of the wall will determine whether you need mortar to secure your curved stone wall. If you decide to use mortar, you will need to follow basic masonry procedures to construct a safe, solid wall.

• Remember to wear safety goggles whenever you try to break or shape the stones with any tool.