How to use the German Shmeer Technique on a Fireplace

I am really excited to teach you all how to use the German Schmeer technique on a fireplace! This is such a great way to dress up your brick fireplace and get it ready for decor.

If you know me, you know that I love trying different painting techniques at home and in my business. While this isn’t technically painting, it achieves similar results. The bonus is that using the ceramic tile mortar gives more depth and texture than paint. In the video below I show you how to use the German Shmeer technique on a fireplace. I hope you love it as much as I do!

How to use the German Shmeer Technique on a Fireplace

I really love the finished look of this fireplace! It gives new life to the fireplace but in an old world sort of way. This method is perfect for those of us who love vintage. It also works really well with farmhouse or rustic decor. Even if you just prefer whites and brights in your home, this could be a great fit for you!

We did think about painting the mantle to match the black insert but decided against it for now. Either way you decide to go, the white backdrop is going make a fantastic backdrop for your mantle displays! All the colors, textures, and details will stand out. You will be able to appreciate your favorite pieces even more!

German Shmeer Supply List

• Ceramic tile mortar
• Mortar bucket
• Stir stick
• 1 cup measuring cup
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths
• Gloves (optional)
• Trowel

Here’s How We Did the German Shmeer Technique

For this project I used ceramic tile mortar. I used a one cup measuring cup and put four scoops into a container. Then I began adding water. Just stir and stir until it is smooth and there are no lumps. I just kept adding a little water at a time and stirring until it was right.

Before getting started, make sure you tape off the side walls and the flooring very well. Don’t forget to also protect your insert and mantle. The more you protect in the beginning the less cleanup you will have. And I am all for less cleanup!

Start by using a trowel to apply the mortar to the bricks. I started at the top and worked my way down. Just keep spreading and spreading until it looks consistent and even. We thought the mortar joints would look better if we ran our finger across them and made them all white. It’s very easy to wash off of your hands but be careful to not put too much down your drain. You could also use a glove if you’d rather and then just toss it when you are done.

Continue spreading the mortar across the bricks and running your finger in the grout lines. Work your way all the way down the fireplace until you are done. Once you are all done, remove your tape and clean up! Sit back, take a break, and start planning your mantle display!

The Wrap Up!

I can’t wait to see this beautiful fireplace all dressed up! It’s going to look especially gorgeous at Christmas time. All the colors and details of the Christmas decorations are really going to pop! And the white will lend a hint of Christmas snow.

I hope you give this technique a try. It is a bit time consuming but actually easy to do! And the whole process gets completed in one go. No waiting for a next coat or next step. So you could say it’s actually faster than other transformation techniques! Let me know in the comments if you’re excited to give this a try!

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