how to lay bricks - Basic Skills Lesson 1 - Freehand Panel

[@Carl-yu6uw]

I've watched many brick laying instructional videos but this "basic" skills video is the most insightful and clear. Thank you for sharing your technique Rob!

[@robsonger1]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. Please keep watching.

[@MrFlynnytwo]

Rob I am a plasterer, and same thing, teamed up with a plasterer who was absolutely brilliant, no mess he taught me so much.I cant stop watching your vids! I am going to build a small extension in 9" Flemish bond so it is in keeping with the original building. Your tutorials makes me feel like I could go out now and do it! I am setting up a practice area in the garden with a gazebo over so I can practice when ever I want.Thank you so much for taking the time to put these vids up.The highest accolade that I can offer is that you, sir, are a true Tradesman!All the very Best!

[@robsonger1]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment

[@steveprint616]

Thank you Rob, best bricklaying video and skills ever. Your instruction and techniques are the best I've ever seen and now utilised by yours truly. Thanks again Rob, Steve

[@robsonger1]

thank you Steve, I hope these are of some help to you. Keep watching, I've still got loads to come but my camera issue has turned out to be a laptop problem...my new videos are just sitting in my library waiting to upload...

[@bornpompey2]

By far the best instruction on laying bricks I have seen, I am learning and will carry this to my work, thank you Rob Songer

[@aaronbrown3573]

I just came across this channel after a couple years of watching brick laying on you tube. I love the content you are a true craftsman it's a little discouraging knowing I'm 44 and only realized 2 years ago I had a passion for bricklaying " I'm a carpenter by trade ". Being 44 and very little experience brick laying I realize I will never be able to do what you do , I discovered my passion about 25 years too late.

[@robsonger1]

Where are you based?

[@aaronbrown3573]

@@robsonger1 Delaware USA.

[@mmmbbop9351]

Such a talent. I binge watch this guys videos atleast once a year. Couldn't get enough when i was at college doing bricklaying.

[@doonhilla]

Good stuff. One of the things that was drummed into me by my dad was to always make sure your perps, and of course beds, were full, saves a lot of time in the long run.

[@LaoZi2023]

Well, it's about time somebody came along and figured out what beginners needed to know about the grout applications, dos and don'ts, and where one would get stuck or slowed down withjoints. Excellent job, Rob.

[@robsonger1]

thank you Douglas

[@KILLUMINATI_MOVEMENT]

Best brickie channel online HANDS DOWN! As someone looking into bricklaying this is JUST what I needed.

[@robsonger1]

Thank you, I hope you enjoy the channel

[@jamesbyronbragg]

I've been a bricklayer for over 25 years and done some teaching too, I have to say mate that's one of the best instructional beginner guides for bricklaying i've ever seen. If only all the bricklaying lecturers took such care. well done keep up the great work.

[@robsonger1]

thank you James, I really appreciate you saying that.....more to come soon

[@johnwargo8990]

Loved the video Rob. Enough basic tips to convince me to give it a go on a brick letterbox . Please keep the basics coming for us Carpenters that want to throw around some mortar. Your work is a inspiration to all Craftsmen no matter what trade they are in .

[@robsonger1]

thank you John, there are a few more on their way soon.

[@smasica]

Best demo/explanation I've ever seen. Clean, precise, and practical. The definition of working smarter, not harder. Seen too many mason's using sloppy speed joints and slapping up a wall or veneer. Thank you.

[@robsonger1]

thank you, that was a well appreciated comment

[@chrischilders8847]

Really nice video, lots of great information and you really get to the point. Best video I have seen on bricklaying for beginners. Thanks Rob!

[@jward9637]

Really interesting how technical each motion is and how it leads to the next step. Also, very interesting how just a small deviation from your lesson can result in many more minutes going back to fill in holes. So many subtle moves. Its a real art form.

[@michaelnorris399]

I have zero brick laying experience and after watching the first 3 lessons I was able to repair 7 courses on the corner of a broken landscape retaining wall some drunk driver hit in the middle of the night. Level, plumb, gauge, and range! Thanks

[@robsonger1]

I'm glad you found them helpful Keep watching, more to come soon

[@BODGE71]

Simply brilliant. This channel will be occupying my evening viewing rather than the rubbish that passes for tv.

[@kennyscrap9760]

lovely demonstration of how to butter a perp properly, been a bricklayer 20+ years, and the amount of empty joints I see on site on a daily basis is shockingly commonplace.

[@elliottdebell7783]

8 years bricklaying I still find your videos extremely insightful. I mean putting the header on dry, so simple but effective. Hands down best bricklayer/instructor on KZbin. Wish I had been taught by you

[@robsonger1]

Thank you Elliot, and hey, if you are watching...you are being taught by me.. thank you again for watching.

[@ronbattiston2468]

I always wondered how to do brickwork and you explained it to me in just a few minutes. So many excellent ideas and methods. Thanks Rob.

[@robsonger1]

Thank you Ron, it's a pleasure to help

[@yogibeer9319]

I’m a retired union pipefitter but if I had another life to live again I would be a bricklayer. It is an ancient and honorable art. Awesome video

[@robsonger1]

Thank you

[@Rust-Trap-Ranch]

A guy can always learn. Been in the trade for many years and just learned a fantastic new head joint. Thx my friend

[@love.pugsss449]

Thank you Rob, all your videos are amazing and i often refer back to them for instruction, but this is the best one yet. Anything is possible once you've mastered the fundamentals. My goal is to be as good as you some day. Thank you from New York, USA

[@robsonger1]

Thank you Jon, there will be more coming soon.

[@mikeharding1871]

Thank you Rob for taking the time to show us the different options and your reasons why you do it your way. Quality tradesman !

[@robsonger1]

thank you Mike

[@claracleere3835]

The best lesson ever. Slow and careful and showing everything from scratch.

[@robsonger1]

thank you, and thanks for watching.

[@gaza8432]

Your my hero rob ! I have been watching your videos for ages and I wouldn't be the craftsmen I am today i have learned a hell of a lot, that's what it's all about, theory and practice, thank you rob, your are the best bricklayer in my opinion, I have seen them all...

[@robsonger1]

thank you Gareth, thats a lovely comment. please keep watching, lots more are on their way.

[@456Brian]

Wow what a fantastic teacher you are all apprentice should listen to this man 👏👏

[@drabhand]

I'm just a general labourer but always watching the other tradesmen to see what they do. This has helped me understand heaps more without having to ask and being told to fuck off.

[@phoenix-kenzodapathaan5568]

As everyone else is saying, this was also for me the no bollocks no waffle no shite and all need to know, no more...no less!!! Thank you for your advice and sharing 10/10 video

[@unclefester9113]

Must have rock solid strong arms and hands. There is something very satisfying about watching how this goes together. Thanks for the lesson.

[@robsonger1]

You're very welcome and thank you

[@steveprint616]

Fantastic video, thank you so much for sharing the excellent skills and knowledge. Brilliant.

[@robsonger1]

thank you

[@ljones396]

Thanks for taking the time to make these vids, Rob. I'm left handed, so even after watching brickies at it I'm still left trying to flip everything around in my head. 😬. At least I can watch these over and over again! Atb.

[@bengreen1262]

So there we have it Rob teaching from basics and the reasons for his style - I hope he carries on showing posts of how to master brickwork - and general build - some great nuggets of knowledge shared...... my dad was a trowel from 16/17 building houses with his Dad from late 50's ending up working with stone Masons on churches because of the skill needed was lost from the trade in the 80's - he is 80 plus now his work is still admired around the area - All the best to you Rob Ben

[@robsonger1]

Lovely comment, thank you. Yes, others can learn so much from those who taught us. I'm trying to get Derek, whom I mentioned in this video, to build an arch for me (7 Arches, is a new series being worked on at the moment) I hope he does as it would mean so much to me to have the man who shaped my ways have a share in these videos.

[@588158]

wonderful video rob! i learned a lot from your explanations about the details of your techniques for laying brick. i salute you by saying, perfection is made of seemingly trivial details and perfection is certainly not trivial!

[@frednowicki7355]

Thank you Rob for sharing your expertise and guidance.

[@jeffhill4062]

iv been a brickie all of my life im 80 now your like the brickie who taut me first class the best good luck jeff

[@dwcuz187xx6]

Jeff Hill dont u have any sort of injury working physically

[@rajaajk7665]

Rob thx for sharing, im a bricklayer to done loads of jobs, but your the best on KZbin I rated you five stars keep the good work up thx m8.

[@robsonger1]

thank you

[@rajaajk7665]

@@robsonger1 your welcome

[@benjamindoody3462]

brilliant. ive been a hoddie for just over a year now i intend to watch this video numerous before my apprenticeship starts to get myself a 20 mile headstart. fantastic bits of valuable knowledge your sharing here mate. Thankyou very much

[@robsonger1]

thank you, more to follow in these basic skills...keep watching!

[@letsgocamping88]

Right, I’ve watched one video it’s time to build my extension...

[@MrMagsimus]

@Benjamin Harvey , on a serious note my freind ..if you are really serious and watch enough of theses videos you can for sure tackle a few good projects... earlier on the year I built a garage and now am actually doing a 6 metre extension with bathroom and kitchen, just done all the digging and concrete work with drains.. most of the knowledge is on here , rest is just having confidence to take it on.. good luck mate 😀

[@McA48]

Lol

[@McA48]

@@MrMagsimus Great stuff

[@cannywf1]

🤡

[@paddypoolfc3579]

Rob as a landscaper I often do my own brick/block work and I have to say this was a master class. I've made my young lads watch this tutorial several times. Well done sir and thanks. 👏🏻😊👍🏻

[@robsonger1]

I'm glad they are helping, thank you for watching..

[@paddypoolfc3579]

No probs. Top man.

[@sebastiensegato6651]

All time legend Robey, best perp tip ever. Thanks heaps mate

[@jasonsmith8813]

Rob, a pleasure to watch and so helpful. You are more than a bricklayer. You are a craftsman. Very very helpful as I plan to build three brick steps in my backyard here in Sydney. Thank you.

[@robsonger1]

You are very welcome, thank you for your comment

[@davehumphries3671]

Thank you for making that video Robert it’s very useful to me and other people as well

[@billcoley8520]

You have by far the best technique as far as the end mudding

[@MrACOUSTICPETE]

Thank you so much , poetry in motion ! I am inspired to " start the art ! "

[@cap7629]

I have a project in mind for the summer and this video has truly inspired me. Appreciate the advice and time taken to make this.

[@robsonger1]

I'm glad it helped and thank you for watching,

[@leroywhitfield6832]

Very good teacher...explains very well

[@tonyhewett3729]

You make it look really easy, I'll keep practicing.

[@joefowler9600]

This is the video i wanted you to make, absolutely brilliant. Can't wait for lesson 2!!!

[@robsonger1]

thank you Joe, I'm planning 5 in this basic skills series. thank you for watching

[@ryank8385]

Really Looking forward to seeing your next video Rob about working forwards and backwards really Enjoy your content Great work Rob 👍👍

[@toddwilson1599]

Thank you rob for the help, I certainly appreciate it, look forward to the next one.

[@lucyfang2045]

I've never been on a construction site nor have I laid a single brick, but I found this video to be very informative, interesting and entertaining!

[@robsonger1]

I'm glad you liked it, and thank you for watching

[@Devon-Harvey]

Great video, probably my favourite beginners lesson I’ve seen on bricklaying 👍 Esp liked the tip on perp joints and avoiding the slant/having to fill in again when joining up

[@testdriver3146]

This...This is pure brick goodness. Makes me want to build a brick wall right now.

[@bloggs692413]

Nice technique always good to get different tips from tidy brickies

[@richardhardaker3685]

Quite the best, and I have watched many! Fantastic job and skills

[@dtp1888]

thanks ive been doing my own DIY since i was a lad, done a few small walls of my own, but learned watching your video in the first 3 minutes where i was going wrong with the buttering of the brick, superb and saves me so much time, and makes the job neater also down to holding the brick,,,, thank you great video have subscribed as i have a large wall to do next year so taking a year to get technique correct as it its 8 course high and full length of my front garden ,

[@mariah4451]

Absolutely the best brick laying tutorial I've come across and I've watched many. Thank you for sharing. On to lesson 2 now :-)

[@fatherdougalmcguire9129]

I was in Preston recently over from NZ and the brickwork on both old and new buildings is brilliant, my English brother in-law is one of those true craftsman.

[@gattonpc]

O man.. This is the best 101 basic skills lesson i've seen untill now.. and i've watched tones of brickwork videos.. and this one is by far well explained and slow enough for anyone to understand it. Nice job with the video mate.. keep them coming. Cheers.

[@booooo666]

Gr8 video Rob.

[@brothermaleuspraetor9505]

Very nice work, the tips are great for beginners to know from the start. Doing this gives brick layers your knowledge, so that future generations can work faster, and people can enjoy cleaner builds. These videos are now in the hands of those future brickies! :) Good Job.

[@lengthmuldoon]

The thinking man's brickie - quality work, mate

[@sipalomalao3383]

Good

[@liamwalters5029]

Best bricklaying video I’ve seen on KZbin, some fantastic points for bricklayers and beginners , nice one rob 👍

[@robsonger1]

Thank you, they'll be a few more in this series coming shortly.

[@robsonger1]

thank you Liam, really nice comment, keep watching, more on their way

[@johnparker2636]

Wish I'd seen this teams ago -priceless -thanks

[@darwinsape9901]

Many thanks Rob... fantastic tutelage

[@healing2gether]

What a great video Rob, thank you for providing this series to us!! -Adam

[@carlosfandango1931]

Great video, nice slow, informative and skilled totorial based on years of experience, well done.

[@tomsmith9185]

Hi Rob, a big thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@alunt2003]

Clear and concise. You're a good teacher. Thanks

[@robsonger1]

thank you

[@alexshinton1556]

I’m a college student in my first year at college, and I’m doing brick laying and this has really helped me because I’m struggling a bit, thank you

[@robsonger1]

Hello Alex, you are the reason I started this channel, it was to help all my students but especially those who were struggling a bit. I found they benefited a huge amount by watching the lessons (Bonding and Calculations playlists were very helpful to lots of them) and there are still a few of those to add.

[@descentintomadness7448]

same here hahaahhaah

[@baldyslapnut.]

The unpicking of each step in your methods is excellent Mr Songer. Efficiency is key in a job that is very wearing on the body. There's a retired bricklayer called Glenn Veness on KZbin. He has a video where you might critique some of his technique but his ideas and processes re: efficiency are spot on. Economy of effort is key. Keep posting!

[@robsonger1]

Thank you, and thank you for watching

[@brickbybric]

Baldy Slapnut I put a link to glens video on robs last video . very good video. here it is again for anybody’s that’s interested I think that glen can lay even faster if you noticed he’s not set up 100 percent properly you may have noticed he has to move his tubs around etc.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIvQm4Z4rLCYnZo

[@WikiPeoples]

dude, excellent instruction. much thanks from U.S. for this.

[@oo0Spyder0oo]

Just when you think you've seen all you need to know, there's some good tips there. I admit to buttering my ends on a slant and leaving a hole in the middle, only because seasoned brickies have shown this method also. Thanks for showing a better way.

[@robsonger1]

thank you, that was a really nice comment..

[@johnhughes4622]

Rob, thanks so much for the basics. Been a keen diyer over the years accumulating to building (with help) a single story home in Thailand using western materials and methods. The finished blockwork was quite presentable and accurate however I found it difficult time consuming and awkward. This lesaon alone has answerd all my issues. Planning layout of materials, stance and method. I loved the finished project in thailand but hated the block laying. I am now looking forward to the whole process with another project in the Philippines. Thankyou

[@robsonger1]

Philippines? I'll help!

[@johnhughes4622]

I would take you up on that if you were serious. Ha ha

[@madmanyo54]

Amazing video and work on this channel

[@robsonger1]

thank you

[@kevangogh]

Thank you for uploading these, it's very appreciated!

[@robsonger1]

and thank you for watching

[@bonanzatime]

I've watched several your videos and you are a superb mason of high quality. even if your techniques are unusual (different).. just shows there's more than one way to skin a cat and lay brick.

[@THECARKUS]

What a great skill. I am so jealous. Love it.

[@daithi007]

thank you for such a wonderful video I've always wondered how bricklayers do it and I can tell that you are probably one of the best

[@johngeoghegan5619]

Thanks for the info and help... Well demonstrated and explained. You make it look easy :-)...

[@mikldude9376]

I have been looking at brick stitching video`s as i have zero experience with any brick work and my garage wall has a pretty decent V shaped crack in it , about 5 feet by 5 feet and i`m going to have a go at it :) , And i stumbled on this video , all i can say is wow , you make it look easy mate , but i have no doubt it is a skill that takes a long time too master . Great to watch and well done sir , thanks for posting . .

[@LoneWolfRehab]

The story of meeting great characters in this game is something I resonate with as I've met and learnt from some great brickes. Actually most have been "old boys" that have all retired now but most of the brickies my age are egotistical know it alls showing off how fast they can lay with no neatness, slanting perps etc and because I'm pre judged even before I lay a brick I have to bring my "A" game ( been dismissed by a brickies foreman with "sorry you're not what we are looking for" on a site induction before ) but it's great to see someone here taking it seriously

[@robsonger1]

thank you Jason and I'm sorry to hear of your experience. Keep watching, lots more to come.

[@nopt1118]

Where have you been Teacher? Perfect tutorial. I was at college doing carpentry but thought I should visit the Brikies; the tutor in his kindness gave me a trial session, I tell you, my wall was so wonky plus I needed a doctor for my back... You make it look so easy, your technique is up there; I should build me a barbecue. Thank you sir.

[@wjf0ne]

Very interesting video. It makes me realise that the first seven or eight row of brick in my house were laid by an apprentice. Apprentice plumber.

[@jimjam1934]

Pure genius, thanks for uploading

[@robsonger1]

nice comment, thank you.

[@johnstanley8091]

Thanks for all your wonderful tips and pointers cheers mate

[@robsonger1]

thank you

[@leshablossom]

great at last a clear tutorial ,great work

[@kevocos]

You are one of the best uploaders on youtube! Quality content!

[@robsonger1]

thank you Kev!

[@tomworley8523]

Superbe video, very enlightening and a pleasure to watch. Many thanks for taking the time to describe and film.

[@sakiboki1598]

Appreciate your demonstration and tutorial

[@AliBaba-tb9zj]

You is the BEST bricky.😎 Thank you

[@petewyllie9889]

Your a really good bricky Rob, I've watched all of your twisted pier vids and they are great!! I made one of those square's and did a twisted pier, looks pretty good but to do those arches that you did I thought you must have a carpenter background too with all that working out of shuttering!! On a different level to me, I'm a tidy bricklayer and not slow but couldn't do that!!😂👍👍

[@F-J.]

awesome clear Informative video. Thank you.

[@robertocendamo1127]

Buongiorno grande maestro e istruttore , fa tutto con passione grande uomo, grande maestro vorrei solo prendere lezioni da lui 🙏

[@mosconi4539]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@robsonger1]

and thank you for watching..

[@ianbrown5924]

as a brickie of 40yrs I can honestly say this man is the bees knees!

[@robsonger1]

I really smiled at that, thank you

[@brook3664]

I'm in the first year of BL, i want to become an engineer, but i really need to fight for that! For actual i have a level 1 diploma, and i know the basics of building, one month passed since i started the BL course, i like the BW art, the mechanics and the tactics, happy to see that video! Thanks

[@marazawkhai1]

Great work, I am learning now. Its helps me alot...

[@TheAudiostud]

Another absolutely brilliant and informative video classic Rob Songer a master in making look oh! So simple

[@MARKMANIATT]

As a Plasterer with 43 years service in, I still find other trades fascinating.Your a natural educator and I look forward to part 2. A new career beckons at 60 😄 ( Or maybe not!)

[@robsonger1]

Yes, get a trowel and come over for a Saturday workshop. Tea provided

[@MARKMANIATT]

rob songer Where you based Rob?

[@robsonger1]

The workshops are at a small farm in Beccles, Lowestoft, in Suffolk

[@MARKMANIATT]

rob songer Your a long way from me.I’m in Leeds. Always fancied investigating Pargetting which I believe is very popular in your neck of the woods.I was trained as a Fibrous & Ornamental Plasterer so a close cousin. I will look out for your next videos with anticipation and good luck with the workshops 👍

[@terrycoleman5877]

Hello Rob, thank you so much for the upload. Please please please do persist with the basics, these are the pieces of information that are missing from all the other (mostly) cowboys on here. Solid sound advice from a true craftsman. Thank you, keep going, TC

[@robsonger1]

Video 3 is scheduled for this weekend, weather permitting....but even then, I might take a gazebo with me.. just for you...ha