How to Make Painted Book Bricks for Your Garden or Patio

If you’re a book lover and a DIY lover, this project combines both in the best way possible. These painted book bricks are such a cute way to add a little personality to your garden, flower bed, or patio area. And they’re surprisingly easy to make! Here’s a step-by-step look at how to create your own stack of bookish bricks.

What You’ll Need:

• Landscaping bricks (I grabbed mine from Home Depot)
• Acrylic paint or interior paint samples (any color!)
• Graphite or carbon transfer paper (white and black)
• Paint brushes in different sizes
• Mini projector (optional)
• Sealing spray — I used Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Satin Clear

Step 1: Prep Your Bricks

Start with clean, dry landscaping bricks. You can use a damp rag to wipe away dust or debris before painting. Once they’re clean, let them dry completely.

Step 2: Trace Your Design

There are two ways to transfer your book cover designs onto your bricks:

Option 1 – Transfer Paper:

Print out the cover or design you want to use. Lay a sheet of graphite tracing paper (white for dark bricks, black for light bricks) between your printed design and the brick. Then trace over the design with a pencil or stylus, pressing down firmly. The design will lightly transfer onto the brick which makes it perfect for painting.

Option 2 – Projector Method:

If you have a mini projector, project the book cover directly onto the brick and lightly trace the outlines with a pencil. This method works especially well for more detailed designs.

Step 3: Start Painting

Using acrylic or interior paint samples, fill in your design. You can mix colors, layer details, or keep it simple. It’s totally up to you. The paint type doesn’t matter as much as sealing it well at the end, so use what you have on hand!

💡 Tip: For lighter colored bricks, use black transfer paper underneath your white tracing sheet so the design still shows up clearly.

Step 4: Add Details & Touch-Ups

Once the base layer of paint dries, go back in with a smaller brush to add fine lines, lettering, or highlights. Some parts may need to be freehanded, especially smaller details that don’t transfer clearly. Take your time and have fun with it!

Step 5: Seal Your Bricks

This step is key to keeping your bricks looking fresh and lasting a long time through all types of weather! Once the paint is fully dry, spray each brick with a clear coat like Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Satin Clear. This seals the paint, protects against weather, and gives a nice finished look.

Step 6: Display Your Book Bricks

Arrange your finished “books” in your garden, on a patio shelf, or around your flower bed. They make the perfect personalized outdoor decor and are such a fun conversation piece, especially if you choose your favorite titles!

A Few Extra Tips

• Mix up the “spine” colors and designs for variety.
• Use a fine-tipped paint pen for smaller text or lettering.
• Let each layer of paint dry before adding details or outlines.
• If your bricks will be fully outdoors, consider doing two coats of sealer.