How to Cut Flagstone

Laying a flagstone patio or walkway may seem intimidating. A successful do-it-yourself patio or walk requires a basic bit of masonry: cutting the flagstone. This is a simple skill to master and can be done without expensive power tools. All you need is a hammer, a chisel and a bit of patience.

Things You'll Need

• Wood blocks or small sandbags
• Measuring tape
• Chisel
• Hammer

Instructions

1. Set the flagstone in a spot where it will lay flat and remain stable. It may be necessary to put wood blocks or small bags of sand under or next to the flagstone to accomplish this.

2. 

   Using the measuring tape and the edge of the chisel, etch lines where you want to cut the flagstone. Draw your lines with the chisel. There is no need to whack the flagstone with a hammer yet.

3. Use the hammer and chisel to strike along the line etched in Step 2. Use firm taps, not hard blows. If you hit the stone too hard, it will shatter. You are trying to chip a line in the stone until it fractures along that line. For especially thick stones, it may be necessary to flip the stone over and etch one line on each side.

References

• Ask the Builder: Concrete and Flagstone Tipe
• Lowes: Laying a Flagstone Walkway
• Flagstone Experts: Cutting