<b>Photo 2: Dig out the sidewalk path </b></br> <p>Slice off sod with a sod cutter (rents for $16 a day), then dig out the rest of the sidewalk path to a depth of 6 in. Dig out about 3 in. wider on both sides of the paint marks to leave room for forms. Set aside some topsoil to fill against the forms (see Photo 7) and sidewalk later.  </p>