How to Dye Mortar Mix to Make Faux Bricks

Achieve the look of a brick wall using dyed mortar.

Mortar is the glue that holds the bricks together within a wall or floor. Dyes can be added to mortar mix to create a personalized color for use in a variety of home remodeling projects. You can create a faux-brick finish if you complete all of the necessary steps; success hinges on getting the mortar mix to the correct consistency and applying painter's tape evenly to mimic the pattern of real bricks.

Things You'll Need

• Drop cloth
• Mortar mix
• Water
• Red/brown cement dye
• 1/4" painter's tape
• Level
• Yardstick
• Trowel
• Base coat paint (optional)
• Lime (optional)

Instructions

1. Place a drop cloth on the floor to protect it from spills.

2. Paint a gray, brown or other color base coat on the surface that will get the faux-brick finish. This step is optional. Your base coat will show through as the mortar lines between bricks on the finished surface, so choose your color accordingly. Wait for it to dry.

3. Use a level, yardstick and 1/4" painter's tape to create a brick pattern on the surface.

4. Apply the cement dye to the dry mortar, then add water in accordance with the directions for your mortar, typically three parts sand, one part cement and enough water to make the mix into a peanut-buttery texture. Mix it all thoroughly. Lime can also be included if desired.

5. Apply the mortar to the surface using a trowel. The texture and thickness is up to you, but be careful not to apply too much.

6. Remove the painter's tape carefully from the surface. Wait for the mortar to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a sponge or small brush to create a realistic brick texture.

• Take your time and allow all wet surfaces to dry completely before moving on the next step.

• Wear gloves when working with wet mortar or concrete.

References

• Paving Expert: Mortars and concretes
• Decorative Faux Painting: Painting faux brick