: The next day, you’ll see distinct layers. Ideally, you want a mix that is roughly 30% clay and 70% sand .
Once your ratios are set, it’s time to prepare the raw material.
: The mixture should be a thick, plastic paste. A common test is the "ball test": drop a small ball of the mix; it should splay out slightly without fracturing.
: Combine your soil (sand and clay) with water and a binder, usually chopped straw or grass . The straw acts like rebar, providing tensile strength to prevent the brick from snapping.
