Sponge Painting Techniques

Materials and Supplies

• Sponge painting can be done with any kind of sponge. Many people prefer the absorbent and rough quality of natural sponges, while others like the uniform consistency of tightly manufactured commercial sponges. Chose sponges conducive to the type of finish you'd like to achieve. Sponges also come in shapes for a stamping effect.
  
  Sponge painting is often done with stencils. These can be homemade paper stencils or high quality plastic or rubber stencils. The stencils you choose will depend on the sophistication of your project and your budget.
  
  Working with children means using water-based paint, both for safety and for easy cleanup. For adult projects, sponge painting can be done with acrylic paints, watercolors or other craft paints. Latex wall paint can be applied to walls using sponges for a faux finish.
  
  Cleanup of sponges dipped in water-based paints involves only soap and water. Sponges dipped in acrylic or oil based paints will need to be cleaned with commercial brush cleaner, paint thinner or turpentine to remove paint from both the sponges and from any spills that occurred during painting. It's always a good idea to use newspaper or a drop cloth to protect your work surface and surrounding areas.
  
  

Techniques

• The first sponge painting technique involves applying paint to prepared surfaces using specially shaped sponges. This is a popular method used by kids. Dip sponges in shapes like stars, flowers and animals into a water-based paint and apply them to paper, similar to stamping. Pressing the sponge to the paper yields a design in the shape of the sponge. Sponges can be assigned one color, or dipped in many colors for a mixed paint effect. Sponges should be kept slightly damp, and a spray bottle is handy for this.
  
  The second technique involves using sponges with stencils. Any size or texture sponge can be used, as the sponge is just the vehicle for paint application. To practice this technique, place a stencil on your surface and tape it down with masking tape, so long as the tape won't damage your surface. Dip the sponge in paint and gently dab at the open areas inside the stencil until you've filled it in with color. This works especially well on furniture projects.
  
  The third technique involves free-form painting using sponges instead of brushes. During this process, sponges of various sizes and textures are used to create a custom art piece. This is a good technique for older children, and also for mural painting or painting large areas. The finished look has an Impressionist quality. This method is often used to apply faux finishes to walls.