- Sponge painting is a paint finishing technique in which a sponge is used in place of a paintbrush. A synthetic or natural sponge can be used, each giving a different effect. Synthetic sponges can be made of low-density polyether, PVA and polyester. Natural sponges are slightly more expensive, but can be used to get a more organic look for the texture of your walls. Sponge painting is a textured pattern used to create depth and color patterns in a wall, mimicking a marbling or plastering effect. Sponge painting is still used, but it was most popular in the '80s and '90s.
- Use a neutral base coat on your walls before sponge painting and let this coat dry completely. Choose a complimentary color slightly lighter or darker than the color you have used on the wall, but similar in shade. The more the color varies from the original wall color, the less natural and blended the sponge painting will look. Because sponges are porous, when you apply the paint to the sponge, you can dapple the paint on thickly or lightly, depending on your preference. Start with a light touch first, because you can always add more paint, but you can't take paint away if you use too much. If the paint hasn't blended to your liking, let the coat dry and sponge another coat of paint over the existing coat until it is blended evenly.
- Over the past few years, sponge painting has evolved into an entire category of techniques. Ragging or rag painting and bagging are two faux finishes that are used the same way as sponge painting, but create a different texture. Ragging creates a very blended marbling effect, while bagging creates a sharper, more detailed effect. All three effects can be mixed in order to create a very detailed, blended design. Apply a small amount of paint to a rag and dab against the wall carefully. Using the same paint color, crinkle a bag and dip it in paint before pressing it gently against the wall. Use a dry sponge to create detail after ragging and bagging.
