Step 1
Wipe down the wall with an all-purpose cleaner and a cloth to remove any grease, food particles and dust from the surface.
Step 2
Use 1-inch painter's tape to section off the backsplash area. Anything inside the tape edges will become the backsplash, so use a measuring tape and a level as needed to define the borders. Put down newspapers or a drop cloth to protect the surface below.
Step 3
Paint the area with a roller brush for even coverage. Choose a paint color based on what you want to show through the finished brick backsplash as grout, which is usually an off-white, buff or soft gray color. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Step 4
Sketch out the pattern for the faux bricks on a piece of graph paper. Go with a simple horizontal brick layout, known as a running bond pattern, for the easiest approach, or create a more complicated design with a basket weave or herringbone pattern. Once you have a pattern you like, sketch it on the wall with a pencil. Use a ruler to help make straight lines.
Step 5
Put the 1/4-inch painters' tape over the pencil marks to designate the grout lines. Press on the tape to eliminate any air bubbles.
Step 6
Apply the drywall compound with a small trowel. Spread the compound from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch thick and smooth it out. Create a brick-like texture by pressing a sponge into the compound and pulling it back out repeatedly to mimic a rough brick surface. Or, press the trowel lightly into the compound and pull it straight back out to create small raised areas on the surface. A third way is to use your fingers to create small divots.
Step 7
Pull the 1/4-inch painter's tape up immediately to create the grooves between the faux bricks. The grout-colored paint should show through. Allow the compound to dry for 24 hours.
Step 8
Reapply painter's tape to the grout lines, pressing firmly to seal. Paint a color-tinted primer over the faux bricks to seal the drywall compound and prepare the surface to receive paint. Allow it to dry for approximately two hours.
Step 9
Paint the faux bricks in any style, color and pattern you choose. Choose a brick red with a lot of brown and gray or go with a lighter brick in gray, tan and yellow. Use a combination of brushes and sponges to create a realistic brick backsplash. Pull up the painter's tape and allow the paint to dry completely.
Step 10
Preserve the faux brick backsplash by applying a clear matte finish sealant with a roller brush. Allow the sealant to dry for 24 hours.