How to Paint Realistic Bricks in Watercolour (Step-by-Step Tutorial)
One of my favourite subjects to paint in watercolour is bricks. Over time, I’ve experimented with different methods, and I’ve finally developed a style that gives a realistic yet artistic finish. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through my step-by-step process so you can paint bricks in watercolour with depth, texture, and character.
Why Bricks Are Tricky in Watercolour
When I first started, I used to paint a watery wash for the mortar and then add bricks individually on top. But the lines often looked uneven, and I wasn’t satisfied with the overall effect. After lots of trial and error, I found a process that creates a stronger structure and more natural colours.
This example is based on a classic red-brick building (my personal favourite!). I’m using Sennelier watercolour paint, but you can adapt the colours to whichever brand you prefer.
Materials You’ll Need
Fineliner pen (I use a black Uni Pin 0.05)
Pencil & eraser
Small watercolour brushes, I use Pro Arte 007 size 1 round, Princeton Neptune size 4 round, and Pro Arte Connoisseur 99 size 1/8 flat
Paints: Chinese Orange, Burnt Sienna, Payne’s Grey
Optional: white pencil for highlights
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Bricks
1. Sketch the Brick Layout
Start with light horizontal pencil lines as guides for the rows of bricks. Go over them with your fineliner. Pay attention to the scale; too big or too small bricks will look unnatural. Don’t forget special brickwork, like window arches.
2. Draw the Bricks in Fineliner
Erase the pencil lines, then carefully draw each brick as an individual shape in pen, leaving small gaps between them for mortar. No need to copy every brick exactly from your reference; just focus on keeping a natural alternating pattern.
3. Paint the Shadows First
Before touching the bricks, add shadows around windows or architectural details. This prevents muddy colours later. I even write myself a reminder so I don’t forget this step!
4. Apply the First Brick Layer
Mix Chinese Orange with a little Burnt Sienna. You have two options:
Method A: Paint each brick individually with a flat brush, leaving the mortar white.
Method B (faster): Apply the wash across the whole surface with a round brush, covering both bricks and mortar.
5. Add Depth with Layers of Colour
Gradually build depth by darkening your mix with Burnt Sienna and a small flat brush (this is where I use my Pro Arte 1/8 flat:
Paint about 40% of bricks with the darker mix.
Darken again and paint a random selection of additional bricks.
Aim for at least three distinct shades across your wall for a natural variation.
6. Define the Bricks with Shadows
Once dry, add thin lines of Payne’s Grey at the bottom of each brick with my Pro Arte size 1 round. This subtle detail gives the illusion of depth and makes the bricks pop in 3D.
7. Final Details
Reinforce edges with your fineliner, add darker accents, or use a white pencil for highlights. This final step adds crispness and texture to your bricks.
Results & Final Thoughts
This technique might feel time-consuming, but the effect is worth it; your watercolour bricks will look realistic, textured, and full of character. Whether you’re painting an old pub, a cottage, a wedding venue or an urban street scene, this method will help bring your buildings to life.
