Clearing space.

Stacking stones by size in readiness.

Largest near wall base, smaller further out and fillers (most important) in piles.

 

Marking batters.

Ends defined with timber frames, sloped for strength.

Base string pulled taught, between nailed markers, an ideal guide.

 

Choosing stones

The largest first, a flat face creating beauty.

Settled in place on the hardened ground, fillers worked in, stone stable.

 

First layer

Completed both faces secured and firm.

Ugly stones, rocks packed into core for added strength and durability.

 

Markers moved.

With each layer the process repeats.

Markers raised, stones laid best face out, fillers inserted, cores packed.

 

Topping out.

Long narrow stones end on.

Complete this work of functioning art, this boundary of beauty.