Plan the wall location, length, height, and purpose
Check local codes, permits, and property boundaries
Gather materials: stones, gravel, sand, mortar if needed, geotextile fabric, drainage pipe if needed
Gather tools: shovel, wheelbarrow, level, tape measure, string line, tamper, masonry hammer, trowel, rubber mallet
Mark the wall outline with stakes and string
Excavate a trench below frost depth or to a stable base depth
Make the trench wider than the wall
Compact the trench bottom
Add and compact a gravel base
Set the first course of stones on the base
Keep the first course level and aligned
Fit stones tightly together
Stagger joints between courses
Use larger stones at the bottom
Fill gaps with smaller stones or chinking stones
Backfill behind the wall as you build
Install drainage gravel and pipe for retaining walls
Maintain a slight backward lean for retaining walls
Check level, plumb, and alignment frequently
Cut or shape stones as needed for a better fit
Continue building course by course to the desired height
Cap the wall with flat stones if desired
Clean excess mortar or debris from the wall
Compact and finish the surrounding ground
Inspect the wall for stability and drainage after completion