Decorative concrete is a new trend that is taking the home improvement world by storm! Dont let that boring concrete bring your home down, style it up. Decorative concrete can be comprised of many different applications, it can be painted on to create a fuax finish, or precut pieces of concrete laid in a decorative pattern. There are many different outcomes you can get from the decorative concrete techniques. Its all up to you and your personality!

The technique that Im going to tell you about will take that ugly, gray concrete and make it look like brick. This technique looks great on steps and walkways, but can be used anywhere. It is also very simple and inexpensive!

You will only need a few supplies. First you will need thick masking tape. Four to five rolls will usually cover a ten by ten flat area so judge how much you need accordingly. You will also need rulers, a piece of tag board, painting sponges, and your desired paint colors. You can ask your local paint store person for what type of paint works best on the type of concrete you have.

Once you have your supplies gathered, the first thing you need to do is create a guide for your bricks. Decide how large you want your bricks, I have found that a 3 x 6 rectangle looks most natural. You will then cut your tag board to the size that you desire.

Once you have your guide, it is time to start laying your tape. Start by laying your tape in one direction first, either all horizontally, or all vertically. Use your guide to measure the space in between. After you have your horizontal or vertical lines laid, use your guide to lay the tape going the other direction. As you now see this creates a nice grid. The exposed concrete will be become your bricks and the space in between will look like the mortar.

After your grid is laid out then you need to start painting. Take your sponge and start dabbing the bare concrete with the paint. By using sponges instead of rollers and brushes, you will create a more natural look.

When you are done painting, all that is left is to let the paint dry, and then peel off the tape. Its as simple as that! Now you will have a beautiful brick staircase or walkway!