The reason for doing a layer of gravel and then a bedding layer of sand or stone dust is to have a solid base that won't settle or move on you. The fabric that goes between the gravel and the soil is more to prevent the migration of soil particles into the gravel base. It's also worth noting that the "gravel" used as a base in this instance is typically what is called 21A, ABC, crusher run, or road base (depending on where you live). It's a mix of large and small particles that, when compacted, lock tightly together. If you curently have peastone or "clean" gravel, that's not going to be as readily re-used as a base material.

It all comes down to the purpose of the path, and what you're comfortable with. I wouldn't do option 1, as it's going to be really hard to level stones on mulch and you're guaranteed settling. 2 & 3 are pretty much the same, you'll just have an easier time levelling the stones with the sand. If this is a garden pathway getting occasional use, you'll probably be fine. If you're looking to build a primary walkway, you may want to beef up your installation a bit.

thanks. so #1 is out. i went to the local rock place and they have something called fines. whats the difference between spreading sand and spreading fines?

Fines are probably sand sized particles from the process of crushing stone. This is very similar to sand, but because it is angular it tends to compact much better. Round sand does not compact well.

We have a path made from "fines" and really like it. Sand particles don't stay in place well and can be spread around but the fines because they are different sizes and kind of angular lock together and make a firm surface that is easy to walk on or push a wheelbarrow on. I don't know if there is a cost difference but even if there is it would be worth it to get the fines.

Maria

Decomposed granite is the most commonly available "fines" type of material here in northern California, and works perfectly well as a stable base for setting flagstone and also for use between flagstone. Depending on what types of plants, sun exposure of the walkway, and type of irrigation you have in mind, you might find it just as expedient to leave the gravel and fabric in place, and set flagstone directly on top of it if existing elevations allow this. If you are thinking of using drought tolerant ground cover plants between the flagstone, such as some sort of dwarf Thyme or succulents such as Sedum 'Angelina' or similar, these can even be planted directly into a DG/gravel substrate if planted out in the rainy season, though it might help to get them established if you also provided a drip irrigation system between the flagstone such as 1/4" diameter emitter line with emitters at 12" or 6" on center for summer watering. Either of the plants I mentioned would do well enough if you just slit the existing fabric occasionally between the flagstones so that the plants could ultimately also root into the existing soil below.

There is really no need to remove it all and start over unless you are wanting to plant more water intensive plants in the joints. Personally, I would stick with what is best adapted for the least amount of effort.

In any case, it would not be smart to put mulch below new flagstone, because the organic content will disappear over time and the elevation will drop accordingly. If you did want more water intensive plants between the flagstone, it would probably make more sense to remove the gravel/DG in the joints and add topsoil blended with the native clay loam at the joints only, and again, provide backup irrigation to keep it doing well in the dry season.

If the space between the flagstone is wide enough that the decomposed granite can be tracked back into the house, I hope you don't have dogs or hardwood floors, because they will get scratched by the tracked in DG over time.

thanks to everyone!..i went to the rock place in my city and am overwhelmed by the choices. i think i will have mulched pathways for part of the garden and the side garden can maybe have the flagstone pathway..its shady and eventually, i might put an arbor or gazebo there.

my garden is a tiny little space of about 1000 sq ft max and for the first time ever, i am somewhat relieved that its small..:)