There are cast concrete "stones" for retaining walls that are interlocking and don't require mortar. If you're doing a retaining wall, this would be an easier DIY option. My neighbors have done this and say it's pretty easy.

It seems like setting bricks in mortar would require pretty good hand-eye coordination to get the mortar spread evenly and the bricks set evenly.

awesome! maybe i will stop at the library and see what they have to offer today.

My dad built an entire brick path around our house and did an arch too. It definitely can be done. Go grab a bunch of those masonry books they have at the front of Lowe's or HD.

oh great, didnt even occur to me! thanks!

Take a brick laying course at one of your county's adult education centers. It can be DIY but you just understand how to do it correctly

no more than 2' high and 10' long. how difficult would this be to diy? I have little experience, but lots of enthusiasm. should I not even consider it or is it a fairly straightforward process?