Hardwood mulch is a good choice for path material because it reduces mud, allows for water drainage, prevents weeds and breaks down over time. The mulch will need to be replenished yearly to maintain a 3-inch depth and to keep the path looking fresh.
Measure the length and width of the path--3 feet wide is common--and mark the outline with non-toxic spray paint. Calculate the amount of mulch you will need using a mulch calculator (see Resources).
Purchase mulch in bags if your path is small. Larger paths will require you to pick up the mulch (if you have access to a truck) or have the mulch delivered.
Skim the grass, along with its roots, from the path area with a spade, then load the grass into a wheelbarrow. You can start a compost pile or add to an existing one with the removed grass, soil and weeds.
Edge the path with the spade, creating a slight angle. This will keep the mulch in the path. Plastic or metal edging is optional, but it helps prevent grass and weeds from encroaching.
Lay weed barrier on the soil to the edges of the path. Choose a perforated, biodegradable commercial barrier to allow drainage.
Open the bags and dump the mulch into the path. If you have a pile of mulch, shovel it into a wheelbarrow, then dump it.
Rake the mulch, spreading it to a 3-inch-thick layer. Repeat Step 6 until you have filled the path.