How to Paint a Faux Finish With a Sponge

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By Civita Dyer
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Need some ideas on painting a faux finish for a different look? Sponge painting is a cool and easy way to change the look of your walls. After keeping your walls the same color for so long, these quick and easy steps will help you add some punch to your decor.

Not everyone has to be a professional painter to have this look professional. Read on for some tips and techniques for the average Joe or Jane who wants to do something different to their homes.

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Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Natural sponge
Paint (one for your base color and one for your sponging color)
Gloves (optional)
Paper towels, or a rag, to blot the excess paint

Step 1

You'll need to prepare and prime the surface you're painting. Just follow the instructions printed on the can.
Step 2

Apply your base color--color number one--evenly and allow that to dry.
Step 3

Dip your natural sponge into water so that it can expand a bit. Squeeze out the extra water, but leave the sponge damp enough to work with.
Step 4

Pour a small amount of your sponging color--color number two--into a shallow container.
Step 5

Put on your gloves and dip the sponge sparingly into your paint. Then, make sure to blot the excess paint before you begin.
Step 6

Here's the fun part! Apply the sponge with paint randomly to your surface. Every now and then, vary the angle and direction of your sponge to fill in spaces left behind.
Step 7

Make sure to rinse your sponge in clean water occasionally to make sure your prints from the sponge are clear and not splotchy.
Step 8

Repeat Steps 4 through 6 until your specified area is covered.
Step 9

That's it! Congratulations! You're done! Sit back, let your masterpiece dry and wait for all the compliments!