Don't buy from Lowes for Depot. Opt for a garden center. They are usually cheaper. Lowe's and Depot usually sell by the bag. Call around. Wood for edging? Won't that rot in time? I have a paver patio. We used paver edging. hope that helps.

I think you need to use at least 3" of sand~I had mine done by a landscaper and that's what he used. I've also read the closer together the stones, the better~weeds like more space. My spaces are larger and weeds are a problem, which is making me re-think cementing the stones in, although it does look pretty like it is.

Edging isn't in~I don't know why he didn't put it in. I'm going to use the old fashioned rubber stuff that you have to pound in with a mallet. My upper arms are getting a bit flabby and I figure I need the exercise, so will do it myself. Good luck with your patio! ;o)

Here is a link that might be useful: rubber edging

Thank you all for your input. @candleinthewind;- Great suggestion on the local gardening center. I will check it out. I didnt think about the rot part while using wood for edging..duh!. Will use paver edging.

@pattycakes:- Does this mean I use 3" gravel and 3"sand for total of 6" and then use paver sand after I put the stones in? Wont it be too soft of a bed which may sink with rain and snow?
Will definitely keep in mind the space between the stones. Was thinking of using some kinda moss but too lazy to place these. Maybe will reconsider it after reading your comment.

Thanks once again.

Does this mean I use 3" gravel and 3"sand for total of 6" and then use paver sand after I put the stones in? Wont it be too soft of a bed which may sink with rain and snow?

No, because you compact it (pound it down) before you lay the stones. Lay the gravel, pound it down. Lay the sand, pound it down. Dampen it and pound it down again.

Are you using landscape fabric between the crushed stone and sand layers? I believe you should.

I'm not familiar with lannon stone. How large are the stones? We just built a patio using large salvaged bluestone slabs. They were extremely heavy and hard to level. It was tough, and a huge job. The uneven bottom surface of the stones made it especially difficult. If lannon stones are smaller and have a smooth bottom, you shouldn't have much trouble.

To discourage weeds(and ants) you can use polymeric sand instead of regular sand between the stones. Just sweep it into the cracks and wet it down (don't do it if rain is predicted -- you don't want too much water). It sticks to itself, but allows drainage,

Okay, and here's my cheat: to get the correct slope, I took a 6' 1x6 and liquid-nailed a 1x2 to its wider face at the proper slope. l lay the 1x6 on edge across the stone and put the bubble level on the 1x2. If it showed it as level, the slope of the patio was right.

Thank you Chibimimi. The lannon stones are rough at the base and are not even. I wasnt planning on putting a landscaping fabric but am curious to know more. Will it impede in water drainage especially since I live in a snowy area and there is a fair amount of water seepage. Also, the patio will be joining the back of the house and was concerned if the excessive water that is not drained due to the landscaping fabric (if true) may end up in my basement. Pl advise.

So sorry I'm slow responding! The landscape fabric helps keep weeds from growing up through the sand. It may have other benefits, too.

It will not impede water drainage, as long as you use the correct stuff. Just make sure the patio slopes away from the house and you shouldn't have any trouble with water getting in the basement. We live in a very snowy and rainy area and have had no issue with water pooling near the house.

However, if you don't have gutters along the eaves of the house, I would be concerned about run-off during a downpour washing out whatever you have between the stones.