Intro to Bricklaying- DIY series - 6th Dec 2026

Course Description This one‑day practical workshop introduces participants to the fundamental skills, knowledge, and techniques of basic bricklaying. The course focuses on safe work practices, correct tool use, setting out brickwork, mixing mortar, laying bricks, jointing, and basic rendering and bagging. Skills gained are suitable for small DIY and non‑structural projects. Course Outcome By the end of the workshop, participants will have developed: • Basic bricklaying knowledge • Essential trowel handling skills • The ability to set out and lay simple brickwork • An understanding of finishing techniques for brickwork 1. Introduction and Safety Content • Overview of the course and learning expectations • Explanation of basic bricklaying applications for DIY projects • Worksite awareness and hazard identification • Safe manual handling techniques • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): • Gloves • Safety glasses • Protective footwear • Safe use and handling of hand tools Learning Focus Participants understand workplace safety requirements and demonstrate safe behaviour when handling tools and materials. 2. Tools and Equipment Tools Covered • String line • Line blocks • Bricklaying trowel • Spirit level • Jointers • Tape measure or folding rule • Hammer and bolster Content • Purpose and function of each tool • Correct handling and basic maintenance of tools • Introduction to correct trowel grip and movement • Importance of accuracy and consistency when using measuring tools Learning Focus Participants can identify tools and describe their correct use in basic bricklaying tasks. 3. Setting Out Brickwork Content • Introduction to setting out brickwork • Understanding brick sizes and mortar joint spacing • Use of a gauge rod to maintain consistent course heights • Explanation of stretcher bond brick pattern • Marking out a gauge rod • Establishing straight lines using string line and line blocks Practical Activities • Learners mark out their own gauge rod • Practice setting out a stretcher bond layout Learning Focus Participants develop accuracy in preparation and layout, which is critical to quality brickwork. 4. Cutting Bricks Content • Reasons for cutting bricks in brickwork projects • Identifying when half bricks are required • Safe use of hammer and bolster • Basic brick cutting techniques Practical Activities • Learners practice cutting a half brick • Emphasis on safety, control, and accuracy Learning Focus Participants safely perform basic brick cutting using hand tools. 5. Mortar and Mixing Content • Overview of mortar and its role in brickwork • Types of mortar and their common uses • Sand types required for bricklaying • Understanding proportions and consistency • Demonstration of correct mixing techniques Practical Activities • Group mixing of mortar • Inspection and comparison of different sand samples • Identifying workable vs. unworkable mortar mixes Learning Focus Participants understand how to prepare mortar suitable for basic bricklaying applications. 6. Laying Bricks Content • Introduction to laying techniques • Bedding mortar correctly • Buttering bricks • Developing trowel control and efficiency • Using a gauge rod, level, and string line to maintain: • Level • Alignment • Consistent joint thickness Practical Activities • Learners set out and lay a single‑skin brick wall • Approximate size: 600 mm high x 1.2 m long • Ongoing instructor demonstration and feedback Learning Focus Participants gain hands‑on experience laying bricks accurately and consistently. 7. Jointing Techniques Content • Purpose of jointing in brickwork • Types of joints: • Round iron • Flush • Struck • Raked • Tools used for different joint finishes • Timing of jointing for best results Practical Activities • Demonstration of each joint style • Learners practice jointing using different jointers Learning Focus Participants understand how joint finishes affect appearance, durability, and weather resistance. 8. Rendering and Bagging (Introduction) Content • Purpose of rendering and bagging • Tools required: • Hawk • Trowel • Poly float • Sponge • Corner tool • Mixing render • Application techniques • Screeding methods • Finishing techniques using floats and sponges Learning Focus Participants gain a basic understanding of rendering and bagging processes and tools. 9. Review and Workshop Close Content • Review of key skills and techniques learnt • Discussion of common beginner errors • Tool cleaning and basic maintenance • Questions and answers • Guidance on next DIY bricklaying projects What to Bring • Lunch (or purchase from nearby cafes) • Wear old clothes, closed-in shoes, and tie back long hair • Avoid jewellery and loose accessories Accessibility Some of our instructors are experienced in working with individuals living with disability. Please advise us of any accessibility needs prior to enrolment so we can accommodate your requirements. Tools & Materials All major tools and materials are provided by The Bower. You’ll gain hands-on experience using both hand and power tools in a safe and supportive environment. Location SUMMER HILL Inner West Sustainability Hub, 7 Prospect Road, Summer Hill NSW 2130 Transportation and parking Bower is located within 5-minute walking distance of Summer Hill Train Station. Both metered and unmetered parking are available nearby.