A great way to tamp down a small DIY paver patio is with a 2x4 and rubber mallet. A vibratory compactor works best, but they're expensive and very heavy, so we don;t use them on very small projects.
Lay the 2x4 flat against the pavers, whack it in several places, then move the board. Tamping helps set the pavers and level the surface.
Do this once before pouring the sand and then after you've broomed the surface.
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