The Secret to Perfectly Curved Brick Edging (No Specialized Tools Required)

Simple Supplies You Probably Already Have

Basic hand tools you’ll need

You can do this with a spade, hand trowel, level, rubber mallet, tape measure, and a broom. A tamper helps, but for a small project, hand-packing can be enough.

That’s why this is such a good weekend yard project. The barrier to entry is low, which I deeply appreciate.

Household items that help mark a curve

A garden hose, rope, extension cord, or even a long piece of flexible tubing works great for shaping the edge. I use what I have, then tweak until it looks right.

You can also use spray paint marking along the hose line once you’re happy. That keeps the shape from wandering while you dig.

Base materials for stability and drainage

For most projects, a little compacted gravel base topped with paver sand base works beautifully. It helps with drainage and keeps the bricks from sinking.

If your soil drains well and the border is decorative, you can sometimes get away with a simpler trench. Still, a little base prep saves you future grumbling.

Optional supplies that make life easier

Landscape fabric, knee pads, gloves, and a bucket for extra soil are all nice to have. None are mandatory, but they do make the job smoother.

And yes, I always forget knee pads and regret it around minute twelve. Next up, I’ll show you how to plan a curve that looks graceful instead of awkward, so hit the next button below.