Cement only conundrum.

[Slime]

Hi all
I hope you're all coping during these unusual times.
I'm laying two sandstone flags to make two steps from my garage to my rear garden.
I'll be using bricks to raise the upper step to the correct level.
My problem is that I only have two bags of cement and half a bag of sand.
I can't imagine getting more sand is going to happen any time soon.
Can I use just use what I have to lay the flags or MUST I have more sand?
Oh, I do have a bag of mortar for the brick work.

All the best,
Slime.

 

[IT Minion]

Some of the DIY sheds and builders merchants are open for collection of the basics like sand. B&Q still sell it.

 

[John D v2.0]

What you have wouldn't work as cement would shrink a lot. The reason 3:1 thereabouts is the minimum is because the sand is providing the structure and the cement is just stopping it falling apart. One you get to 3:1 the aggregate wouldn't be touching any more.
As above, wickes is doing click and collect, they bring it out the car park and all you do is turn up.