When you use the masking technique you will have two colors of paint. Usually the base coat color is the brightest of the two. This extra strength allows it to be seen through the top masking coat. You will probably want to pick two colors that are close to each other on the color wheel, or a white paired with another color.

Also, the base coat will double as your "grout" color, so keep that in mind. It is recommended that you use a Satin Paint for this coat because it is smooth, and the sheen makes it easier to apply the top coat paint. Flat sheens will stick and create a more rubbed appearance, whereas semi-gloss finishes will remain very smooth and pick up less topcoat color.

Let the basecoat dry at least 24 hours before starting the next step.

When deciding how large to do the "bricks, keep in mind how large your room is, and pick your brick and grout size accordingly. If you are doing small, red brick sized blocks, use a smaller width masking tape--perhaps only a 1/2" size. Larger blocks can use larger "grout", so you can go up to the 1" or 1 1/2" wide tapes. Designing the brick layout and taping it off is the hardest part of this project, so be sure to think it all through before you begin. And be sure you have enough tape--depending on the size of your project you will probably go through at least 4 rolls.

Start by using your level and tape measure and tick off the placement of your grout lines. Be really careful here, you don't want your brick wall to slope one way or the other! Start at one edge, and moving down, measure the width of one brick and make a mark, but do not use pen to make this mark as it will show through. Measure the width of the grout and make a mark, then measure the brick, etc. Go back and place up your tape, being sure to press down on the edges really well to avoid paint seeping under.

Once the base coat has dried completely you can begin the washing technique. Tape-off baseboards, doors and window trim to keep from painting everything in sight. You may even want to tape-off the ceiling and adjoining walls. To do the washing technique you will want to get terry cloth or a shop towel damp, bunch it up, dip it into the top coat paint, and go directly to the wall. Use a swirling motion to apply the top coat as lightly or heavily as desired. It's a good idea to work from top to bottom and left to right as you move across a wall. Don't stop once started on a wall because as the paint dries, it can create overlap marks.

Every once in a while, step back to make sure that the swirl size is consistent.

Once it is dry you can sit back and admire your work!