German smear, sometimes called German schmear, is a grouting technique applying mortar between and over the faces of stones. It was first introduced in Germany in the 1500s as a way to finish walls made of brick and stone.
In contrast to limewash and whitewash, German smear uses mortar instead of paint and creates a thick, textured coating on the brick that does not breathe or patina over time, giving a permanently rustic look rather than a naturally aging finish.
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