The setting mortar is a premixed 'Masons Mix' or you can make your own.
1 part cement, 3 parts sand and 1/2 part lime. I use 2qts of liquid acrylic ( Hydroment multi purpose) per 150#'s of dry mix.
This is a great material for grouting. Use a sponge to 'tool' the joints and wash the stone.
Rinse the sponge regularly. take care not to wash excessively or you will end up with an exposed aggregate like appearance.
If you want to use a colored grout after the entire patio is complete, you might want to acid wash the surface first with a mild dilution.
I'd wait a few days after that and pre-seal so the grout releases out of the clefting in the stone.
A few days later, re-seal.
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how thick to butter the stones
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Put your mortar on the slab. Imbed the stone into it and tap into place with the mallet like was mentioned. Have a level handy to lay them flat in relationship with the adjoining pieces.
The mortar will squeeze up between the stone. Add mortar with a pointing trowel, let set for 10-15 minutes so it can set up a bit before you wash it if you grout with the setting mortar.
Sort your stone by thickness.
I'd start on one side with the thickest first, using slightly less mortar, then move across your slab.
KT