German Schmear Brick Pros and Cons. As with any project, there are pros and cons to consider. Pro: It's aesthetically pleasing. It’s a pretty way to update outdated brick that lends a historic feel.

German schmear can be used on any exterior brick where you’re going for a European or stone-cottage look, as it blurs grid lines between bricks and gives them a rustic look.

1. Wash and vacuum the fireplace area. Be sure to do your best to remove any black soot as it could bleed through the mortar and discolor it. If that happens, let it dry and go back and add ...

A traditional German schmear is done on a smooth, non-painted brick. The brick has to be smooth so that when you mortar over the bricks and then wipe it away (aka smear) you are left with some ...